GRAFENWOEHR, Germany -- The latest fitness craze is coming to Tower Barracks and it's free.
On Oct. 18, Army Community Service will host the Break Away 5K Color Run at the Tower Barracks Physical Fitness Center at 10 a.m. Through the color run, ACS hopes to drum up support for Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October.
"We want to bring in a lot of participation while raising awareness for domestic violence," added Lauren Boehm, Family Advocacy Program victim advocate.
Color runs have exploded in popularity in the past year. The focus is on having fun rather than racing as runners get splashed with brightly colored powder at different stages on the course. They finish the 5K covered in color.
The local run promises to brighten the Bavarian morning, while also educating participants on the cycle of violence in domestic relationships.
"It's a continuum of abuse and reconciliation," said Carolyn Bryant, FAP specialist.
It starts, she explained, with peace. Then tension builds and is followed by a physical or verbal explosion, an apology and then the "honeymoon phase." The cycle then repeats.
During the run, participants will circle the mile track at the fitness center three times. As they run, they will pass signs indicating abuse, symbolizing where they are in the cycle of violence.
Bryant said the aim is to increase understanding of patterns of abuse so runners learn to recognize abusive relationships.
"A lot of times victims don't know they're in a cycle or that the cycle even exists," added Boehm. "You have to be aware of it before you can break away."
Those who wish to participate in the Break Away 5K Color Run are encouraged to wear white clothing that they don't mind getting dirty.
Please remember, if you know someone who is a victim of domestic violence do not be silent; the victim may be wishing that someone else will make the report so they will not be blamed or punished by their abuser.
Let them know about the resources that are in the community. ACS exists to listen, support, provide resources and help community members make informed and careful decisions.
Concerned neighbors and friends can make an anonymous call to the military police if they want to protect their identity.
Victims can call the ACS FAP 24-hour domestic violence hotline at 09662-83-3218. For more information, call ACS at DSN 476-2650, CIV 09662-83-2650.
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