September 30th is National Women’s Health And Fitness Day! This annual observance is to celebrate all the ladies who are taking control of their health journey — by focusing on the importance of regular physical activity and health awareness, you’re ensuring you’re living your best life.
Here are 8 quick tips to being a healthier woman, as well as some inspiring stories from a few of the incredible gals at Kids in the Game.
“Being a female athlete means to defy all odds and to empower yourself through all obstacles that are thrown at you. Sports have impacted my life tremendously as well as the individuals that I’ve met throughout my years of playing different sports. Sports have given me the ability to carry myself with a different level of confidence and positivity. I hope to be a role model and empower all of the young female athletes that I have the pleasure of working with in the future.”
Jeshley Jemenez, Adelphi Fellow
“Sports have been my life since I could remember. I grew up with two parents who were amazing athletes, so it was in my genes. Being a woman in sports not only helped me bond with my family (my dad taught me how to throw my first spiral!) but it also helped me learn the concept of a team. Learning at a young age how to work with others and how to strive to be better every day made me who I am today. Being a woman in sports helped me learn that being strong is beautiful and we are just as good as the boys. Young girls should not be afraid to show their strength, not just physically but mentally as well.”
Cara Hudson, Director of People and Culture
“I couldn’t imagine my childhood without sports. Every spare moment was filled with soccer, swim, and ski practice for as long as I can remember. Beyond fostering my work ethic, time management skills, and giving me some of my best friends for life, I gained skills that I didn’t even realize I had until my adult years. All those years of jumping into a pool at 5 in the morning have molded me into the person I am today and for that I am forever grateful for having the opportunity to be a ‘girl in sport’.”
Tatum Boehnke, Director of Community & Impact
“Playing sports was always an awesome experience for me even if I wasn’t the best player on the team. I was a happy go lucky kid who knew my contribution to the team no matter how small would make an impact even if it was a simple “good luck” or high five. Over the years, this is an attitude I’ve embedded into my coaching style and healthy lifestyle. As a college athlete trying to balance school, work and life lessons, there was one consistent element through it all – the pool. This was my space to completely be myself and create lifelong friendships. It was also a space that had limited women of color representation, which became and will continue to be my greatest motivator and honor.”
Ivelisse Rivera, Youth Sports Coordinator
“I always have the aspiration of being an athlete. I was a volleyball player in my elementary and high school years. And that was it… I felt my aspiration to be an athlete, as a swimmer or a runner, will always be an evasive dream.
Frances Murphy, Director of Early Childhood
My summer was totally different. It went from day to night! A wise person told me, “Turn this into an AFGO – Another Fantabulous Growth Opportunity.” I started running, and joining virtual 5K races – 1 in NY, 2 in CA and 1 in OH. I would always break my personal time. I’m not there yet, but I’m setting my eyes on the Boston Marathon!”
“Along with thousands of other women and Kids in the Game, I’m taking a moment to recognize the 2020 National Women’s Health & Fitness Day. For me, prioritizing fitness and health goes beyond physical activity. It’s about committing to positive change for yourself.
For years, I couldn’t run a mile, and I was ok with that. As I got older, I realized that I needed to prioritize self-care and part of that was developing a health and fitness routine that worked for me. When a friend asked me to train for a half marathon with her several years ago, I pushed myself to make that commitment. After months of training, we finished that race. Then we did it again. And again. Those were the moments that made me realize nothing is out of my reach. It wasn’t a major achievement compared to some, but it was something that inspired me to believe in myself. Being part of Kids in the Game allows me to be part of a community of women who have experienced this journey in their own way and are working tirelessly to help NYC youth find their own strength and resilience through sport and creative play.
So when we see other women (and men, and children) pushing themselves to become healthier and more physically fit, we should be their cheerleader. They’re on their way to becoming stronger physically and mentally.”
Sandy Persaud, Chief People Officer
“Sports really laid the groundwork for the woman I am today. They taught me what it meant to be a part of a team, what foods would fuel me, and showed me the incredible things my body could do. Daily activity, healthy eating (plus some cookies) and teamwork are still a part of my everyday life. I wouldn’t be who I am today without all that sport instilled in me.”
Stennett Smith, Creative Marketing Manager
At Kids in the Game, we’re lucky to be surrounded by strong women every day. Keep inspiring others!