09.23.09: The Power Underfoot

The idea behind my Save the World Diet is we have the power to change the world with our own bodies. Our bodies are not just clothing hangers, but vehicles to do our life's work. Every step we take can be an action step.

This weekend I will be taking my own action steps -- as I participate in and speak at the American Heart Association's Start! Heart Walk in Bridgewater, N.J. The Start! walks-- more than 400 nationwide -- are held all over the country are about encouraging people to become up and active.

Walking has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity and has multiple health benefits. It is also a very Green way to get from point A to point B.

For me, walking has been an empowering activity. It has taken me to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, for AIDS orphans, and to the finish line of my first marathon, which I walked in May on behalf of the American Heart Association and other charities.

So join me 10 a.m. Sunday at Duke Island Park in Bridgewater at the Start! Walk. If you are just starting an exercise routine, or if you are well on the path to great health -- we all have the power to change the world underfoot.

Please Click below to join my team or to support the American Heart Association on behalf of my walk:
http://heartwalk.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=300942&lis=1&kntae300942=D66923C22FFA426DBDDB8472A056D1EC&supId=0&team=3429656&cj=Y

Thank you!

9.22.09: Hard Rides to Make Life Easier for Young Breast Cancer Survivors

As I took a quick 8-mile bicycle ride through a neighboring town, I came to a stop right in front of a crossing guard. He had a bright orange vest, and gave me a "What are you doing on a bicycle look.

All he came out with was, "Looks like that's hard on your back."
"It's hard on a lot of things," I said, trying to get my balance after pushing off the curb. "But it is good for you in the long run."

And good for lots of people. I am training for day three of the Hershey's Tour de Pink, a ride to benefit the Young Survival Coalition. This organization helps young women affected by breast cancer.

I have to admit, it has taken me some time to get out on the road. I love indoor cycling classes, and while those who ride on the road say being on a bicycle is easier, it was difficult for me to get out there because of fear.

Being on a bicycle feels very exposed. I hike in the woods. I walk on the sidewalk. On a bicycle you hope those driving motor vehicles decide to share the road with you.

Being visible isn't my issue. When I ordered my bicycle shorts, I thought they should have read "Wide Load" with yellow striping on the back.

With each ride I gain a little more confidence and comfort on the bicycle. So, even if it is a little hard on me, hopefully it will make the lives of young women affected by breast cancer a little easier.

Here is the link to my YSC fundraising page: http://www.active.com/donate/tourdepink/KRichar342

www.fatwomanonthemountain.com

I want to give a special thank you to Rick at Verve in Somerville, host of a terrific fund raiser for Young Survival Coalition. We had great food and pink drinks -- and a great time.

Upcoming Events:
Join me at the Start! Heart Walk 10 a.m. Sept. 27 at Duke Island Park, Bridgewater. Click to sign up for my Action Steps Team.

World Obesity Congress, Speaker, Oct. 1

9.06.09: Walk With Me!

I wanted to invite you to join my Action Steps team at the Start! Heart Walk 10 Sept. 27 at Duke Island Park in Bridgewater, N.J. I am a team captain for the event which benefits the American Heart Association and I would love to have your support, either as a fellow walker or as a sponsor.

Here's the link to sign up for or make a donation to the Save the World Diet's Action Steps team:
http://heartwalk.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=300942&lis=1&kntae300942=D66923C22FFA426DBDDB8472A056D1EC&supId=0&team=3429656&cj=Y