About two years ago I made the decision to try and lead a more healthy lifestyle. I’m in my forties and, while I’ve never had a weight problem, I knew I needed to pay closer attention to my health and if I was ever going to get started now was the time to do it. Eating better and regular exercise were at the core of what I wanted to do. My wife, a nutrition specialist and a “selectarian” (someone who eats primarily vegetables but also some fish and dairy), helped me to adjust my diet to include more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. I also joined a gym. Part of my workout routine was running. I’ve always hated running. Having been a smoker in the past it really wasn’t anything I was especially good at. The first time I tried to run I think I made it to the end of my block before I had to turn around and pant all the way home. I went a little less than half a mile.
I’m proud to say that I now run about 6 or 8 miles a week. Not a huge distance for anyone who’s a regular runner, but I’m getting better. One of the things that helps me along is running in the occasional 5K. We’ve all seen the signs posted in or around our towns – run or walk in this or that 5K to support this or that cause. Well, they’re all pretty good ideas. The benefits are twofold: some money goes to a worthwhile cause and you get a little healthier. Not a bad deal.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation: “Honor Our Bravest”
This year I’ll be running in the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk on Sunday, September 29th. The run honors the legacy of Stephen Siller, a firefighter in Park Slope, Brooklyn who died on 9/11, and benefits all those who’ve sacrificed in the line of duty. The race course retraces the steps of Stephen as he ran through the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, which was already closed to traffic, to the World Trade Center with 60 pounds of gear on his back. Almost 3 miles.
Some coworkers of mine are also participating in the event and we’ve put together a small team. If you’d like to sponsor us and make a donation to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation please visit our team page.