A collection of Santas will be trading in their sleighs for treadmills on Dec. 16 and 17 in Hespeler.
Orangetheory Fitness will be taking part in the HoHo Holiday 5K in support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Each year over 10,000 people across the country dress up as Santa Claus and participate in the run.
This holiday season the popular gym, located at 350 Hespeler Rd., will be participating for the first time and putting on the event in studio.
Upon registering online, participants receive a Santa hat and suit before taking to the treadmill to run or walk their five kilometres.
Supporting the community is nothing new to the gym.
“We do a lot of community fundraising at this location,” Jeanette Allan, assistant manager of Orangetheory Fitness said.
“One of our members actually brought this event to our attention. There’s a virtual option but we’re allowing members to come in and do their 5K on the treadmills.”
The opportunity to combine a workout with holiday cheer and a good cause seemed like the perfect fit for a fundraising idea, Allan says.
“It’s a good opportunity to blend fitness in combination with giving back,” Allan said.
“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone run in their Santa suits but also being able to give back to children who have dealt with so much already.”
Amy Livingstone is a coach at the gym, but will also be strapping on a Santa suit and taking part in the run. She points out that their business model is about a lot more than providing a place for people to workout.
“Anything to support the community is what we’re all about here,” Livingstone said.
“I want to help support our members, they came with the idea and the more we give them love and energy, the more they know their coaches are supporting them.”
Livingstone is thrilled to be part of a fundraiser that will support children and hopefully bring some holiday cheer to those who really need it.
“It’s huge,” she said.
“I know a lot of unfortunate children and the fact that they get a chance is what we’re trying to do. The gym is very supportive and connected to the community.”
The runs will take place at 4:30 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. on Dec. 16 and 12:15 p.m. on Dec 17. Residents don’t have to be an Orangetheory Fitness member to participate.
For more information on the HoHo Holiday 5K, to register and set up a fundraising page visit hohoholiday5k.com. Treadmills can then be reserved at Orangetheory Fitness.
