Worthy Workouts

Worthy Workouts: "Worthy Workouts
Getting fit for a good cause

In January, 2004, Robbie James, 38, made three resolutions: to get in shape, meet new people, and do something to support a worthy cause. James, the owner of Home Helpers, a four-person home-care agency in El Segundo, Calif., hit the resolution trifecta when she signed up for Train To End Stroke. The organization coaches both experienced athletes and couch potatoes so they can compete in endurance events such as marathons. In return, racers are asked to raise anywhere from $3,500 to $5,000 for the American Stroke Assn. Advertisement

On the weekends, James pounded the pavement with other first-time marathoners. Weekdays, she followed a workout schedule designed by a coach from Train To End Stroke. By June, she had lost 12 pounds and was ready to tackle the Kona marathon in Hawaii with her workout buddies. 'I was happy, and I felt good about completing it,' says James.

Train To End Stroke is just one of several national health-related nonprofits that train novices and experienced athletes alike for major sports events as a fund-raising tactic. "