At Oncor we have a wonderful health initiative called “Live Well.” Through “Live Well”, Oncor encourages their employees and family members to live their best life by providing a unique and comprehensive network of education, health and fitness programs.  I eagerly joined the “Live Well” challenge as soon as it was implemented. Even though my blood pressure, LDL and HDL are exceptionally better than the recommended stats, there are concerns over my Body Mass Index. The simple fact is that I am overweight.       

So I began my search on how to get fit and not break the bank. A coworker told me about Black Girls RUN! The mission of Black Girls RUN! is to encourage African-American women to make fitness and healthy living a priority. This is done in an effort to directly tackle the growing obesity epidemic in the African-American community. Running and walking are both amazing ways to get and stay fit by not only providing a good cardiovascular workout, but also a great calorie-burning regime.

Black Girls RUN! has a national network of running/walking groups that hold conversations about all things health and fitness. I joined the local group in my area about three months ago, and have greatly enjoyed meeting and working out with these encouraging and motivating women.  I recently completed my first 5K race, and I have signed up for another 5K race in February 2013.

You do not have to be African-American be belong to this group; there are women from all races that participate in Black Girls RUN! If you want to get fit – whether you need a little extra motivation or are just looking for a running/walking buddy – this is a great organization for you. For more information on Black Girls RUN!, visit http://blackgirlsrun.com.