Registration ends on March 7
Exercise is important … everyone knows that. But let’s be real, everyone also knows that getting started on and sticking to a fitness plan is easier said than done.
Take running, for example. For some, taking that first step is the hardest. For others, it’s the solitary nature of running that turns them off. And for others still, there are various barriers that keep them from participating as they might like.
That’s where the Preventive Medicine Initiative Heart & Soul 5K, taking place March 8, comes in.
“The race is meant to inspire health, wellness and community connection by overcoming common barriers such as limited time, resources and support that often prevent people from adopting healthier habits,” said John Sealy School of Medicine MD candidate Ajay Panda, who oversees the 2025 run.
Clearly, this well-intended run/walk is about more than running.
“It aims to emphasize the importance of inclusivity, well-being and community engagement by promoting healthier lifestyles and supporting organizations that align with these values,” Panda added.
In 2022, Ethan Ha, now co-president of PMI, created a free virtual 5K—a transformative project born from Ha’s own experience with Preventive Medicine in his life.
Exercising, dieting or developing healthy habits are all difficult on their own, and unexpected challenges (i.e. feeling hungrier after exercising more or having foot pain one week into a six-week walking plan) can be discouraging and may require individual care and support.
But providers—as Ha found in his own experience—often don’t have the time or resources to support patients in the lifestyle changes they advocate. Participants in the PMI 5K find a community that helps fill that gap, offers support and encouragement and provides camaraderie as they run toward the common goal of a healthier lifestyle and enhanced sense of well-being.
Response to the initial virtual event was so positive, the PMI team expanded it to an actual event. A virtual option also is available to those who can’t make it in person, and there also are opportunities to buy 5K swag and to flat-out donate without registering for the run.
And speaking of registration, it ends on March 7.
The run steps off from 28th Street at the seawall at 8 a.m. March 8 and will conclude with a Finisher’s Festival at McGuire-Dent Recreation Center, 2222 28th St., featuring food and festivities.
And although it’s too late to take advantage of it now, here’s something to remember for next year: PMI offers two beginner-friendly training sessions in collaboration with Run Club at UTMB in the weeks before the run.
Ultimately, the mission of the PMI 5K is to:
- Foster a sense of community
- Promote understanding and empathy between providers and individuals seeking improved health and activity levels
- Eliminate obstacles to physical activity.
“Open to all—patients, physicians, students and local residents—the PMI 5K provides an inclusive platform for participants to embrace an active lifestyle, build meaningful connections and work together toward achieving shared health goals,” Panda said.
In keeping with PMI’s commitment to inclusion, proceeds from the run will be donated to the Galveston-based Christina Sullivan Foundation, which focuses on promoting an inclusive world by supporting individuals with disabilities.
About PMI:
The Preventive Medicine Initiative was founded in 2022 by students of John Sealy School of Medicine with three goals: