Wandering Bella Photography
The members of First University Church arrived at Al Lopez Park in Tampa, Fla., on Sunday, May 21, 2017, at 5:30 a.m., to prep for the third annual “Get Moving Tampa Bay 5K Run/Walk.”
In Tampa this is of major importance. One study shows that 22.1 percent of area residents report no daily physical activity at all. Also, 64.5 percent are overweight, and obesity contributes to numerous debilitating health conditions. For months, bi-weekly fitness training to get members and residents ready to move from couch to finish line were held.
At 7:50 a.m., everything was ready. Warm-ups were done. Water stations stocked. Special editions of Vibrant Life were distributed to promote healthy living. A healthy post-race breakfast was prepped, and the finish line decorated. Nearly 500 runners and volunteers registered, and most of them were not Adventists. Sponsors from several organizations, including Florida Hospital, made invaluable contributions.
At 8 a.m., the runners approached the starting line, the countdown began, the bell rang, and the runners and walkers were off. As each participant crossed the finish line, they received finisher medals, and then they moved on to breakfast to eat and fellowship with members and volunteers.
Members want residents to know that good health is attainable, but starts with good decisions; healthy diet, exercise, and healthy relationships. By 10 a.m., the race was done, but the message was clear. It doesn’t matter how you start, the goal is to “Get Moving” toward better health.
Southeastern | September 2017
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