The Hyderabad 10K Foundation is organising the Go! 5k Walk/Run marathon for women on the occasion of the International Woman’s Day on Sunday, March 3, flagging off at 7 am. Two tracks – a 5 km and 2km track – has been set for women to run, jog or simply walk on. The more adventurous and fit of the lot can also cycle the track, but will have to go all the 5kms. Uma Chigurupati, a regular marathon runner herself and chairperson of the foundation tells us more about the marathon.

“I know the marathon says run but the focus will be on walking because how many people can actually run? If people can, that would be great,” she starts off. Being organised to throw light on the importance of exercise, why is the focus only on women? She responds, “This is in celebration of International Women’s Day, or rather Women’s Week since the marathon will be conducted on the Sunday prior to the actual day. But also, we think that working women and educated women know the importance of physical fitness and are healthy. They are the ones who aren’t fit. If the woman is healthy, the family will also be healthy.”

With the motto ‘My Health My Concern’, she further adds, “The woman takes care of the family. But who will take care of her. Cardio-vascular exercise is important for everybody and this a day that women can come together to motivate each other and get motivated to lead a more healthy life.”

With lifestyle diseases on the rise and the risk of cancer shooting up, Uma points out that at least five days a week of exercise will not only prevent such statistics, but also induce a sense of positivity in people’s lives.

The women’s special marathon which began last year, also features a list activities to entice more women to join in. For instance, a prize was given out for four generations of women taking part. “There was a grandmother, her daughter, her grand daughter and her little girl who took part. This year too we will give out such a prize. There’s more, but it’s a surprise,” Uma shares.

Reporting time for the marathon is 6:30 am, which will be followed by warm ups. Registration for the same is Rs 50. Those interested in bicycling can either get their own cycle or one will be provided at the event by the Hyderabad Bicycling Club. And well, if you can’t run or cycle, just turn up for a pleasant walk in the morning along the Necklace road where the marathon will take place. For further details, contact 040 6464 6003.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / Home> Cities> Hyderabad / by Express Features – Hyderabad / March 02nd, 2013