Get moving & reduce cancer risk

The American Cancer Society in June updated its guideline for diet and physical activity for cancer prevention, based on the most current scientific evidence. The new guidelines nearly double previously recommended levels of physical activity, saying adults should aim for 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week.

With these new recommendations in mind, and with so many local athletic events switching to virtual formats this summer, it’s a perfect time to focus on a fitness goal, such as:

• Falmouth Road Race: “We need to make our own finish lines,” says Medford resident and Brookline teacher Amy Woogmaster who leads her team BUnitedforaCure to support the American Cancer Society’s DetermiNation program, in memory of their college friend Kelly. She, “fought stronger and harder than anyone should have to, and who loved her beautiful son Danny Boy so deeply. Her strength and love continue to empower and inspire…everyone who knew her,” said Woogmaster. Running with DetermiNation – even in a virtual event – was an easy choice because, “cancer is taking away too much time and energy from the amazing people in my life and the lives of others, and I want to do all that I can to help end this cruel disease.” [Runners wishing to join the Society’s DetermiNation team should visit https://falmouthroadrace.com/registration/ and select the American Cancer Society as your charity of choice.]

• Bicycles Battling Cancer: For more than 10 years, teams making up employees of AstraZeneca and Genzyme Sanofi, their families and friends, have ridden in American Cancer Society’s New England cycling fundraiser, Bicycles Battling Cancer, which normally begins and ends in Marlborough. The mission of the event, with all donations supporting cancer research and supportive programs and services, is at the heart of the ride, but they readily admit they keep a watchful eye on the other team’s fundraising efforts – and build camaraderie with a little friendly trash-talking. “There’s a ton of biotech companies on the ride, and there’s a sense of pride to lead the pack,” said Rob Albert of Medford, Team Captain for Astra Zeneca, aka AZ Cranks. “Every year we do what it takes,” said, Tammy Hanley of Boylston, Team Captain of Genzyme Sanofi. [Cyclists who wish to sign up for this year’s virtual ride, during the weekend of Aug. 21 – 23, should visit http://bicyclesbattlingcancer.org. The event’s fundraising minimum has been eliminated, registration is ongoing.]