Local walk a good way to give back, work out


We all know the meaning of momentum, but what about “womentum?”

Described as “an inspirational force gained over a distance of five kilometers applied to the eradication of cancers in women,” the clever pun is the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s trademark marketing tool in promoting its annual Revlon Run/Walk for Women, scheduled for Saturday, May 7.

The 5K course begins at the California Science Center on Figueroa Street, twists around Hoover Street and Vermont Avenue and ends at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Participants are split into runners and walkers.

The runners start the race at 8:45 a.m., and the walkers start at 9 a.m.

The Revlon Run/Walk is one of Los Angeles’ biggest 5K races every year. Last year’s event drew a crowd of about 29,000 participants.

Not surprisingly, more than 22,000 of those were female.

The aim of the race, as the name suggests, is to eradicate women’s diseases by supporting cancer research.

Many of the participants are cancer survivors who are encouraged to wear special “Survivor Caps,” designed specifically for those who have won their battles against cancer.

But you don’t need to have any personal affiliation with women’s cancers to participate.

Although the race strongly encourages survivors to be involved and to share their stories, anybody can register and participate.

The most important aspect of the event is to spread awareness and to raise money.

The race costs $35 to register as an individual, or you can register with a team.

By registering, you not only get to participate in the race, but also will automatically receive a free T-shirt and goodie bag on race day.

Not sure you have the money just yet, or don’t want to commit to anything too soon? On-site registration is possible for $40.

The race, like most 5Ks, places  a heavy emphasis on charity and fundraising.

You don’t have to raise extra money other than what you pay to register, but it’s highly encouraged.

All of the proceeds go to cancer research and support the financial needs of female cancer patients.

There are quite a few incentives for those willing to fundraise, too.

If you raise at least $250, you get a EIF Revlon Run/Walk canvas tote bag. For the high-achievers, raising more than $5,000 will get you a $500 Macy’s gift card.

One of the most exciting parts of the event is the opening ceremony.

Last year, the celebrity hosts included Modern Family’s Julie Bowen, CSI’s Marg Helgenberger, dancer Carrie Ann Inaba and Desperate HousewivesJames Denton.

The celebrities were enthusiastic, supportive and deeply passionate about the cause, allowing them to truly connect to the crowd on an emotional level.

This year, celebrity hosts include Academy Award-winner Halle Berry and How I Met Your Mother star Alyson Hannigan. American Idol finalist Kimberly Locke is also scheduled to sing the National Anthem.

With celebrities, goodie bags and an exciting racetrack, everybody should join in the fun, right?

Not exactly.

The problem with the event is it isn’t designed for those wishing to compete.

Besides the issue of overcrowding, there are no distinctions between age groups or official timing methods.

But the race isn’t supposed to be competitive.

Instead, it’s meant to bring people together to fight women’s cancers.

For non-runners, the run/walk is a great opportunity to support a charitable cause and bond with friends and family. Students can grab a friend or two and register as a team.

The event can also  provide a brief break from exams. The weekend of the Revlon Run/Walk comes between finals weeks.

By taking just a few hours to move your body, you’re bound to feel better about yourself and gain some energy you might have lost because of nonstop studying or sleeping in too late.

So don’t put it off: Go online and register for the race.

If you’re a runner, take the time to train and stay fit.

If you’re a walker, see it as an opportunity to socialize, grab some free food and be a part of an inspirational group of people who are capable of changing lives.

 

Hannah Muniz is a sophomore majoring in East Asian languages and cultures and creative writing. Her column, “Fit ‘n Fab,” runs Mondays.