Betsy went about the first 25 years of her life believing she was “allergic” to sweat. She has since completely changed her perception of exercise and has worked her way up to become an ultra-marathoner running 50k, 50 miles and even a 100k race. The 100-miler is next on her list, and she’s determined, saying “It’s amazing what our minds and bodies can do when pushed a little bit.”
Betsy Grams is the Executive Director of CycleHealth, the adventure arm of the YMCA of the north, based in Minneapolis. She has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Concordia College, and after graduation began work as an English teacher. After about 10 years of teaching, Betsy began to introduce physical activity into her life and notice the mental changes that were happening because of it. At the same time, it also opened her eyes to realize a big difference between her school children who were physically active as a way of life and those who weren’t. When observing how the more active children were also typically more focused in class, more confident and overall, just had a more positive view, she realized movement is medicine. That has now transitioned into not only her own active lifestyle, but also her work today.
In this episode, host Jim Narum talks with Betsy about the various family adventure events that her company puts on and the purpose behind them. There are not many opportunities for inter-generational adventure together. But adventure is a universal aspiration that can lead to better overall wellbeing. Adventure helps with physical activity, anxiety, goal setting and determination, relationship building, and so much more!
Betsy also talks about how they partner with Pediatricians to try to ease the conversations these doctors are having with so many kids and families about needing to be more active. With this partnership, the doctors can “prescribe” or recommend that children and families participate in these adventures to give them a fun way to introduce outdoor activity safely into their lives, and to help change their mindset about physical activity.
You won’t want to miss this episode, join us for some great insights into how to engage your adventurous side!
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