Over three years ago, Joe Rios was committed to working a job in the corporate world. “I was very committed to the corporate life,” said Rios. As a result of that commitment, his health wasn’t a top priority.
Roughly 30 pounds overweight, that all changed when a friend asked him to complete a half marathon. He agreed, and inspired by the completion of that first race, now has a mission — to run marathons on the world’s seven continents. So far, he’s run marathons in North American, Europe and South America, and plans on completing his mission by March 2015.
Part of what has catapulted Rios forward is his role as a group fitness instructor at GoodLife Fitness in Ottawa, Canada. In 2011, GoodLife Fitness hosted open auditions amongst members for the newest Les Mills® Group X instructor. Out of close to 80 people, Rios was chosen. “I think it was all about attitude,” said Rios, when asked why he thought he was picked. “I was really positive and excited to be able to empower people.”
In addition to empowering others, Rios said his members empower him. “The biggest takeaway I get from teaching at GoodLife is the members,” he said. “I see the members come week after week, and their dedication inspires me.”
Fighting diabetes is a cause that inspires Rios as well — a disease he lost his grandmother to, and one that his father currently struggles with. Since running marathons, he has raised around $14,000 for the cause.
Running for a cause is the ultimate force behind Rios’ drive. So much so, it inspired the “Run 4 a Cause Project.” A free, 5K running event, the “Run 4 a Cause Project” brings awareness to important issues such as diabetes and cancer. “The idea is to get the community together to bring awareness to different causes that affect them,” said Rios.
Looking back on his life before running, Rios is amazed at how far he’s come, and the impact he’s had. “It’s a journey I never thought I would embrace, but I’m embracing it now,” he said.
For more information about the Run 4 a Cause Project, visit http://thrivewithjoe.com/run-4-a-cause-project/.
By Rachel Zabonick
