OKLAHOMA CITY (Jan. 13, 2025) – Many people set resolutions in the new year aimed at improving health, increasing community involvement and helping others. Yet, studies show that sticking to these goals can be challenging. According to the Pew Research Center, while nearly 29% of adults in the United States set New Year’s resolutions, many face difficulties such as lack of motivation and unrealistic expectations, with fewer than half maintaining their goals after a few months.
Organizers of the Redbud Classic, Oklahoma City’s premier fitness event, have seen it’s easier to train when people work toward participating in an athletic event. They know Redbud offers struggling resolutionists a unique solution to keeping their resolutions by providing a variety of fun and inclusive events. Redbud Classic helps participants set achievable fitness goals while fostering a sense of community. Scheduled for April 5-6, 2025, the event includes activities for all ages and fitness levels, such as 10- and 30-mile bike tours, a 50-mile fondo, 5K and 10K runs, a 1-mile Kids’ Fun Run, a 1-mile Woof Walk, a 2-mile walk and stroller derby, and more.
“Redbud’s events allow participants to incorporate several healthy activities with the bike ride, running and walking events, as well as include family and friends,” said Kristin Hersom, executive director of Redbud Classic. “We love seeing our participants achieve their goals, especially their New Year’s resolution goals.”
Research published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information highlights the long-term physical and mental health benefits of consistent training and participation in community fitness events. These benefits include improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress and enhanced overall well-being. Redbud Classic has built a tradition since 1983 of fostering a supportive and fun environment where participants can tackle their resolutions alongside others with similar goals.
Building a Community of Fitness and Support
Since its inception, Redbud Classic has focused on fun, fitness and philanthropy. Beyond offering opportunities for individual health improvements, the event encourages participants to connect with others, creating accountability partners and training groups to increase the likelihood of meeting their goals.
“Amplifying our athletes’ efforts within the community is at Redbud’s core,” Hersom added. “We see participants who not only set personal goals but also inspire their family and friends to join in.”
Whether a busy parent training for their first 5K, a community-minded individual organizing a walking group for the 2-mile walk, or a seasoned cyclist aiming to complete the 50-mile fondo, Redbud Classic provides the structure and support needed to achieve resolutions. Additionally, participants can find inspiration knowing they’re contributing to the community, as Redbud Classic has donated nearly $1 million to local organizations over the past 41 years.
Get Involved
Participants are encouraged to register early for the 2025 Redbud Classic. Early-bird registration is open until March 1 with a price increase on March 30. Of course, participants can always register up to 30 minutes prior to their interested event. Volunteer opportunities are also available, offering a chance to engage with the community while supporting the event. Along with event pricing, volunteer signups, donation opportunities and sponsorship forms are all available at https://redbud.org.
By setting a short-term goal like training for a Redbud event, individuals can build momentum to stay on track with their health-focused resolutions for the rest of the year. Additionally, community-focused resolutions, such as volunteering or encouraging friends and family to join, align perfectly with Redbud Classic’s mission to create a healthier, more connected Oklahoma City.
About Redbud Classic
Since 1983, the Redbud Classic (https://redbud.org) has become an Oklahoma City tradition involving the community through fun, fitness and philanthropy. The race, to be held on April 5-6, 2025, offers 10- and 30-Mile Bike Tours, a 50-Mile Fondo, and 5K and 10K races. Other events include a 5K Wheelchair Event, 2-Mile Walk and Stroller Derby, a 1-Mile Kids’ Fun Run and the 1-Mile Woof Walk. Each year, Redbud Classic selects a local nonprofit as the race beneficiary, raising almost $1 million for local charitable organizations since the race’s inception.
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