Pilates for Pink

I just read about one of the coolest new charities, Pilates for Pink. SHAPE magazine and The Breast Cancer Research Foundation have joined forces to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. The initiative includes custom-created Pilates for Pink products, an online charity auction, and Pilates for Pink classes at participating Pilates studios across the country. The project was kicked off by SHAPE’s Pilates for Pink Festival in Union Square, New York. 100% of proceeds from this event went to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Pilates is more than just the latest fitness fad. To me, it represents strength and empowerment for women. Women who respect and care for their bodies should realize the importance of breast cancer awareness.

According to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, there are three steps every woman should take improve your health and prevent breast cancer.

1. Participate in an hour of aerobic exercise three to four times a week. Research shows that incorporating exercise into your daily life can reduce your risk of breast cancer by as much as 40 percent. “Regular exercise reduces the amount of estrogen and progesterone you produce, and those hormones may fuel breast cancer,” says Anne McTiernan, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Prevention Center at the Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center in Seattle. Follow the link to find the Pilates center near you participating in the Pilates for Pink initiative.

2. Start maintaining a healthy weight now. Studies show the extra pounds, especially around the midsection can increase your risk for breast cancer.

3. Don’t smoke. It’s not just for your lungs anymore. The carcinogens found in cigarette smoke are bad for your breast as well. Respect your body and ask those around you to snuff their butts too. Research shows that regular exposure to secondhand smoke may increase your risk for breast cancer by as much as 27 percent.

Respect yourself and the ones you love. Take steps to prevent breast cancer and help educate the women in your life that you love. Pink is powerful.