5K gives both runners and walkers the opportunity to join in activity during Mental Health Awareness Month
Last weekend, more than 500 runners and walkers joined Amerant Bank in their mission to help promote mental and physical as well as financial fitness within the community through its first Amerant Bank 5K benefiting United Way Miami and its efforts to strengthen the community. Last weekend also marked the midway point of Mental Health Awareness Month, which takes place in May every year.
This partnership with the United Way underscores Amerant’s commitment to serve the communities it has a presence in, while working on improving the health and wellbeing of the people and their families within the community – including its team members that came to race from all over South Florida and take part in the 5K.
Furthermore, Silvia M. Larrieu, SVP, Chief of Staff to CEO and Head of Corporate Communications & Community Relations says that, “being financially fit is just as important as being physically fit. Through being healthy and making a decision to be healthy you are making a more informed decision. In the running world, you often hear, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. It’s not about doing it once, its’ about staying the course, building the pace and cadence. When you’re dealing with finances, it’s important to understand that it’s a marathon, it’s important to have a long-term plan.”
Frankie Ruiz, Chief Running Officer at Life Time – Miami Marathon, agrees. The benefits of running and exercise go beyond physical. “Our experience has been that running can increase the production of endorphins, and this leads to a good feeling, naturally that is, and is proven to counteract anxiety and stress,” he says. “Additionally, the mental strength developed organically through the gains with training create a more resilient mindset. One begins to understand that pushing through difficult and challenging times makes for a more resilient skillset.”
So, if you’re just getting started, Frankie recommends to “run for time, not mileage. Get yourself to run for 20-30 minutes for several weeks before you add distance or more time.” Also, running with a partner can keep both of you accountable and consistent. “Do it slowly but do it often. Don’t allow more than 48 hours between your running days. If you can get at least 4 days of running per week you will see progress”
Check out the highlights from the Amerant Bank 5K in this video. And remember, get out there and get active!