In a bid to tackle the rising threat of cardiovascular disease in Guyana, Stride 592 has launched the Soca Heart Project, a new initiative aimed at encouraging healthier lifestyles through increased physical activity.
The project is a collaborative effort between Stride 592, Space Gym, the Ministry of Health, and various local health organizations.
The Soca Heart Project emphasizes the H-E-A-R-T principles: Health, Exercise, Awareness, Responsibility, and Training.
This framework underpins the project’s mission to empower individuals to take charge of their cardiovascular health.
On Friday, the initiative took center stage at Space Gym 2.0 on Mandela Avenue, where participants engaged in high-intensity Zumba sessions designed to elevate heart rates and promote cardiovascular fitness.
This event marked one of many activities planned for the project, which includes educational campaigns, awareness drives, and fundraising efforts to support cardiovascular health in the community.
Onika Jervis, the Founder and Director of Stride 592, highlighted the urgency of addressing high heart disease rates in Guyana.
She emphasized the project’s goal of bringing attention to the issue through active participation and community engagement.
Stride 592’s efforts are set to continue with strength training classes throughout September at Space Gym, encouraging more people to get involved in physical fitness.
In addition to the Zumba sessions, the Soca Heart Project features nine different walk and run groups preparing for a major event on September 29, which includes a 5k, 10k, and relay races for kids and families.
Local pharmacist Ariel Ganesh from Mr. Med Pharmacy is also contributing by offering free health checkups to further promote heart health in the area.
Stride 592 remains committed to fostering an active lifestyle through various initiatives, including their weekly free yoga sessions held at the National Park every Sunday.