PORTLAND, Maine — As the New Year begins, many are embarking on their resolutions for a healthier and more active lifestyle in 2024.
According to a recent survey by Forbes, improving fitness ranks as the top resolution this year, with losing weight closely following as the fourth most common goal.
In the spirit of fostering these aspirations, a local gym is not only encouraging individuals to pursue their fitness goals but is also giving back to the community.
Starting Line, a running studio located in Portland, kicked off the first day of 2024 with their second annual event, "Maine Needs More Miles," where the distance covered holds significance.
"It takes a lot of motivation to wake up on Jan. 1, but we love this place and the atmosphere of everyone running together. We love starting the year this way for sure," Patrick and Lauren Hoagland, runners, said.
The event saw local runners logging impressive distances, with some even surpassing 30 miles during the day.
"I am running all five classes here at Starting Line this morning to raise money for Maine Needs," Steven Fritzsche, a dedicated runner, said.
What sets this event apart is Starting Line's commitment to donating one dollar for every mile logged on the treadmills throughout the day.
The funds generated will be utilized to purchase winter clothing for those in need within the community through their partnership with Maine Needs.
"It helps people here in our community, so this is Maine people helping our neighbors. It's a great way to kick off the new year on the right foot and get in all my miles at the same time," Fritzsche said.
Despite the varying paces at which participants tackled their workouts, every class on Monday was filled to capacity.
Studio manager Aaron Willingham expressed his delight at the impressive turnout, noting the increase in first-time participants compared to the previous year.
"Last year we had a lot of just friends and family; it was our first event, but we've had a lot of first-timers today so far," Willingham shared.
In 2023, the event raised $850 in one day for Maine Needs, and this year, there are hopes to surpass that amount and reach a goal of $1,000 on this New Year's Day.
"We try to support them [Maine Needs] year-round, but when there's a big push in the community to get their name out there, we like to be a part of that as much as we can," Patrick and Lauren Hoagland, runners said.
Whether walking or running, individuals at Starting Line demonstrated that going at your own pace can contribute to both personal wellness goals and supporting those in need in the community.