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GEORGE NEWS - Vitality Run Series, an initiative by Discovery Vitality, has included three more cities in its line-up of 17 running events. From September 2023, the Vitality Run Series will paint running routes in the Garden Route and Eastern Cape in Vitality pink and entries are open.

"Vitality is about making positive health choices, in this case getting active, easy, accessible and fun by adding some social interaction. The Vitality Run Series encourages outdoor exercise and people can enjoy beautiful locations like George, Gqeberha and Plettenberg Bay. 

"Through these events, Vitality brings opportunities to be physically active to more people. It's another way we create awareness of and provide access to the benefits of physical activity for overall improved health," says Head of Wellness at Discovery, Dr Mosima Mabunda.

Globally, 1 in 4 adults do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity. Not being physically active enough, increases the risk for several lifestyle-related chronic illnesses and poor mental health. 

Lack of physical activity is also an important factor related to obesity. In South Africa, more than 20 million adults and 13% of children younger than five are not at a healthy weight, according to the Vitality ObeCity Index. 

This Index further showed that engaged Vitality members, who record workouts more often, are twice more likely to be at a healthy weight than those who are less engaged – which indicates the role of being active for a healthy body.

Take every chance to be active for better health

Moving enough is important for young and old. Exercise is not only about managing weight, but also ensures healthy growth and development in young people and helps to maintain overall wellbeing with age.

All it takes to get healthier, is to be active for at least 150 to 300 minutes a week. It helps to prevent and manage cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes, and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. Activities, such as walking or running, also improve thinking, learning, and judgment skills.

What are you waiting for? Sign up for the Vitality Run Series

• George: 9 September for Madibaz George Forest Run with Discovery Vitality
• Gqeberha: 21 October for Rafi's BayRun with Discovery Vitality
• Plettenberg Bay: 28 December for the Sabrina Love Summer Challenge with Discovery Vitality

"Across the country, the Vitality Run Series is a way for families to be active. Adding more events has also been guided by our research in the Vitality ObeCity Index, which showed a need for access to parks, gyms and other events to help South Africans get more active. In addition to these races, Vitality also makes physical activity more accessible through partnerships with parkrun and providing discounted access to gyms. Our aim is to create awareness and ongoing opportunities for more people to experience the health benefits of being active and in good health for longer," says Mabunda.

So, get ready for the Vitality Run Series. First-timer walkers, runners, or avid athletes can sign up and join the beautifully mapped out routes in George, Gqeberha and Plettenberg Bay. Join in and change your health and the health of the city!

What are you waiting for? 

• Sign up for the Vitality Run Series
• George: 9 September for Madibaz Forest Run with Discovery Vitality 
• Gqeberha: 21 October for Rafi’s BayRun with Discovery Vitality
• Plettenberg Bay: 28 December for the Sabrina Love Summer Challenge with Discovery Vitality

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