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Even after days of torrential rain across Southern California, several ZOOZ Fitness coaches — and one determined athlete — showed up at Balboa Park for November’s Run Club, ready to complete the ‘Because I Can’ Virtual 5K.

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“If it rains, shines, or snows, we still run,” said Tim, a ZOOZ athlete, as the group hit the pavement.

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This month’s run was held in partnership with and in honor of Allié McGuire, founder of AwareNow Media, who created the Because I Can 5K initiative. Allié recently wrote a powerful feature story and released a podcast episode spotlighting Jake Weiner and ZOOZ Fitness — and the message of movement, disability inclusion, and resilience deeply resonated with the ZOOZ community.

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Allié’s journey began in November 2024, when she — while living with multiple sclerosis — ran the 8K during the Philadelphia Marathon Weekend. She documented her entire experience.

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“I ran to film my journey. It’s a story that reflects the struggles and strengths of so many facing invisible battles,” she said.

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Inspired by the impact of that race, Allié committed to running the event again in November 2025, inviting her community — and the world — to join her virtually. She continues to film her story for an upcoming documentary.

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“We all have something we can’t outrun — whether it’s MS, breast cancer, diabetes, anxiety, or something else,” Allié explained. “But we don’t have to run alone. That’s what this film is about… the strides we take in our lives that give us strength to keep going. By participating in the ‘Because I Can’ Virtual 5K, you’re supporting a film in the making that’s becoming a movement.”

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All proceeds from the virtual race support the production of her documentary, with a portion benefiting the National MS Society.

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For ZOOZ Fitness, participating was an easy yes. Supporting disability advocacy, mental health awareness, and movement-based empowerment aligns perfectly with the gym’s mission.

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Jake said,  “At ZOOZ, movement is more than exercise — it’s a declaration that everyone deserves the chance to feel strong, capable, and supported. Running alongside Allié’s mission is an honor. Her courage reminds us that when a community chooses to move together, no one has to face their battles alone.”

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The ZOOZ team was proud to show up, run in the rain, and champion a cause rooted in strength, visibility, and community — everything ZOOZ stands for.

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