Give2Move inspires fitness and giving
In a strong show of unity and kindness, people across South Africa took part in Discovery Vitality's Give2Move campaign, marking World Move for Health Day with a renewed focus on helping others get active.
Read more: Martial arts meets fun at SEISHIN Martial Arts Academy fitness challenge
Vitality encouraged South Africans to donate new or gently used running and sports shoes as part of the Give2Move initiative. The goal? To help others take their first steps towards a healthier and more active life. Several new drop-off points were also added nationwide, making it easier for people to take part in the campaign.
The events' highlights included fun and energetic activations at parkruns in key cities, as well as the Vitality Run Series event. These activities brought together seasoned runners, new walkers, and caring citizens in a shared celebration of movement.
Delta Park was one of the parkrun venues that saw a great turnout. Among those who showed their support were Discovery Vitality CEO Dinesh Govender and South African running icon Bruce Fordyce, along with his wife, Gill, who has played a key role in bringing parkrun to the country.
Also read: Fun, fitness, and fundraising at Blairgowrie Primary's fun walk
Speaking at the event, Govender said: 'We often say that movement is medicine, but for many, the first step is the hardest, especially without the right gear. Give2Move is about making that first step easier. It is deeply moving to see South Africans come together in such a generous, joyful way.'
Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie joined the KwaZulu-Natal leg of the Vitality Run Series. He praised the campaign, saying: 'Running has the power to change lives physically, emotionally, and socially. Giving someone the right shoes gives them that opportunity. I encourage all South Africans to open their hearts, and their cupboards, and make a difference.'
The Give2Move campaign is based on a simple idea: Donating a pair of shoes to help someone else discover the life-changing joy of movement. Dr Mosima Mabunda, Discovery Vitality's chief clinical officer, said the campaign is rooted in the belief that physical activity should be for everyone. 'Moving more is one of the most powerful prescriptions for better health. Through Give2Move, we are not only encouraging South Africans to get active but also making it easier for others to experience the joy of movement, comfortably and enjoyably.'
The campaign is still running, so, people who wish to donate can drop off shoes at the various locations, including:
• All Discovery stores across the country,
• Vitality Run Series events,
• Team Vitality tier 1 and 2 hospitality events,
• Discovery Soccer Parks (Mall of Africa, Wanderers, and Sandton),
• Discovery Group offices nationwide,
• Selected Sportsmans Warehouse and Virgin Active clubs, and
• Chosen parkrun venues nationwide.
To find your nearest drop-off point, or learn more, visit: Discovery.co.za/vitality/give2move
Through Give2Move, Discovery Vitality continues to build a healthier, more connected nation, one donated shoe at a time.
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Related article: South African Seniors Fitness Association visits Olivedale Library
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