BEVERLY — People looking to get fit and help a good cause can push themselves at an event this month called Push Ups for Charity.
The fundraiser helps the Wounded Warrior Project, which supports severely injured Army servicemen and servicewomen.
Mike Stare, owner of Spectrum Fitness Consulting, thought of the idea as a way for the community to give back to veterans and to get into shape.
"People have something to train for and will contribute to a good cause," Stare said. "It's a great charity that really hits home."
The Wounded Warrior Project began with a group of veterans who wanted to help the injured soldiers retuning home from Afghanistan and Iraq. It provides support for the wounded and disabled by helping them heal physically and mentally.
Rob Herron, 43, a retired Army captain, feels honored to participate in the event.
"I've seen a lot of soldiers that have come home that can use the help," he said. "A lot of them are so injured that they can't go back to their jobs."
Herron was in the Army for 91รขÑ2 years. When he returned home, he became a physical therapist at Lahey Clinic in Burlington, where a number of his patients were injured while in the military. Today, he is a trainer at Spectrum Fitness Consulting.
"It's a great idea and great project," he said. "I'm hoping to do 40 to 50 pushups."
The event is open to everyone ages 8 to 88. Individuals will have 90 seconds to do as many pushups as they can. Sponsors will donate either 50 cents or a dollar for each pushup. Stare said everyone who registers to participate or sponsor is provided with his "12 Week Fat Elimination and Body Transformation Program."
"It comes complete with nutritional information and exercise program," he said. "Once they sign up on the Web site, they will immediately be able to download it."
There will be 100 fitness professionals in the country doing Push Ups for Charity.
"Locally, we are trying to raise $5,000," Stare said.
The event starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 17, at 100 Cummings Center, conference room 225E. Register at www.pushupsforcharitybeverly.com.
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