Black Girls Run

Black Girls Run

Hey Ladies!

I am sure by now you may have heard about this group Black Girls Run! Two young professionals, Toni Carey, 28 (left) and Ashley Hicks, 29 (right) started this movement in 2009 in hopes to encourage African American women to adopt healthy, active lifestyles. Did you know that one study reported about 80% of African American women are overweight! OMG. Those kind of stats are alarming but the real question becomes why? There is so much that I want to say right now about the topic I am getting ready to bring up but I need to prepare for bed so I'll be quick. :-)

Are there still so many black women out there who jeopardize their health for other things like hmmmm.... I'll take a stab at one...HAIR?  Sigh... I was one of them myself so I in no way judge. You know the scenario. Just had a fresh relaxer put in or a new hairstyle and you dare not sweat out your roots! And swimming... well that was not even an option! LOL. All jokes aside, health is more important than hair if that even needed to be said. For me, ridding my hair of chemicals was my saving grace. I am way more eager to work out now. :-) As a newbie to natural hair and running, I share this for the girl who may be on the fence about both. Check out my girl Dani at www.thecurlydiva.com for all things about natural hair. Another good source is Naptural 85. Her vlogs on youtube are awesome.

At the end of the day whether you decide to "go natural" or not. It doesn't really matter. What matters is that you IDENTIFY what is stopping you from adopting an active lifestyle. Whatever the hinderance is that is keeping you from increasing your heart rate on a daily or biweekly basis for at least 30 - 45 minutes (I am being nice), GET OVER IT! Black Girls Run is a movement that is saying loud and clear, "Black women need to stay active in order to stay healthy!" I support this movement wholeheartedly! I'll be joining thousands of runners on Sunday, September 16th for the Inaugural Black Girls Run Race in Atlanta, GA.

BGR is supporting the Drive to End Hunger. Check out details here-> www.blackgirlsrun.com. I'm excited! My second 10K...whoot whoot! Who is with me?!

Check them out in the October edition of Essence mag with Jill Scott on the cover. They were recognized as Fitness Gurus for the Style and Substance Awards. Congrats Toni and Ashley!