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Sedona Marathon Launches Off The Couch Campaign in Sedona Arizona
Sedona, AZ: Just in time for the holidays, the Sedona Marathon is bringing back "Off the Couch," the call to all citizens of the Verde Valley to literally get off the couch and start moving. Last year people of all ages showed up and either walked, jogged, or ran every other week with marathon representatives. One person lost thirty pounds while participating in the program.
"We want to create a community of health in a relaxed friendly atmosphere. Something doable for everyone," states Race Director Karen Livesay. "Every time you pick up a newspaper or turn on the news, you hear about the growing obesity epidemic in the United States. The current statistic in Arizona is that 57% of our population is overweight. Imagine going into the holidays or starting next year already in better shape than you were at Labor Day."
Additionally, Race Director Karen Livesay is expanding the program this year, adding free monthly clinics to the alternate weekly workouts. Sedona Marathon Health Coordinator, Thunder Mountain Wellness Center Director Jeff Masters, will lead the monthly clinics as well as providing training tips at the workout sessions. A certified personal trainer, Masters is currently under consideration as a therapist for the Sri Lankan Olympic 2008 Summer Olympic Team. Richelle McMaster from Pilates by Richelle will also be assisting.
The whole emphasis for the Marathon with this program is on getting Sedona moving and active. More advanced athletes can expect pacing and stride tips as well as other useful information. Beginners will receive much needed support and encouragement. Different activities and tips are being developed for children and families as well to meet their different needs.
Additionally, this year's program is much more hands on. Sedona Marathon Health Coordinator, Thunder Mountain Wellness Center Director Jeff Masters, will lead the monthly clinics as well as providing training tips and creating entertaining and innovative activities on training days. He is looking at setting up different courses and creating team relays as well as games to make this as fun as possible.
 "There are so many small things you can do that make a difference," states Masters " So often people starting out get overwhelmed. For example, one easy thing you can do is just add 10% more activity each day."
The first clinic takes place on Tuesday October 16th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at in the West Sedona School library. The focus of this month's clinic is fitness basics and the fun interactive evening is being designed to appeal to both kids and adults.
The opening event is quickly followed by the first training session on Thursday morning October 18th at 6:30 a.m., at the Sedona Red Rock High School Track. The marathon is inviting all people ready to "get off the couch" to attend. You don't have to participate in the marathon to be a part of this program. As an added incentive Thunder Mountain Wellness Center is offering a 20% discount on all services to participants.
Additionally, as part of their commitment to Sedona community the Sedona Marathon has designated the Sedona School District, The Sedona Charter School, and the Sedona Charter Montessori School as the local charity recipients of the 2008 Marathon. This is a great way for people who would like to raise money for their school to get started.
The Third Annual Sedona Marathon takes place on Saturday, February 9, 2008.
For more information on "Off The Couch" or how to register or volunteer for the 2008 Sedona Marathon go to www.sedonamarathon.com or call 928-203-4514. For more information on Thunder Mountain Wellness Center go to www.tmwc.org or call 928-600-2609.
Article courtesy of Mindy Mendelsohn.
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