HOTWORX studios nationwide are turning sweat into support with 30 Minutes to HIIT a Cure, a breast cancer fitness fundraiser in partnership with Go Pink for the Cure. What started as one couple’s idea has grown into a nationwide HIIT challenge where everyone can come together to fight breast cancer one rep at a time.
Turning Inspiration to a Breast Cancer Fitness Fundraiser
After several years leading the warmup for the Komen Kentucky MORE THAN PINK Walk in Louisville, Mike and Kelli Rogerson wanted to make a greater impact against breast cancer with a fitness fundraiser.
The couple own and operate two HOTWORX locations in southern Indiana. HOTWORX offers a different kind of fitness experience that blends infrared heat with isometric and high-intensity interval training. Sessions are designed for maximum efficiency to help members get results in less time, all within a supportive community environment.
“Several women in our community shared how sessions helped while they were going through treatment for breast cancer, and we wanted to do something to show our support,” Mike said.
Developing the 30-Minute Workout Concept
Mike and Kelli worked with Stacy Scovanner, a breast cancer survivor and HOTWORX member, to develop the concept of 30 Minutes to HIIT a Cure. HIIT – short for high-intensity interval training – sessions are 15-minute virtually-led workouts that alternate between powerful cardio bursts and quick rest intervals. Participants can choose their preferred equipment for each session, with options including a cycle, rower or seated elliptical.
“It’s two different HIIT sessions back-to-back with a short break in between,” Kelli said. “We felt it provided people a good workout without being too much for people who hadn’t been to a session before.”
Kicking Off the Inaugural Breast Cancer Fitness Fundraiser
The first 30 Minutes to HIIT a Cure event took place at the Jeffersonville studio on Sept. 14, 2024. For a $35 donation, members and non-members dedicated their workout to loved ones impacted by breast cancer.
Local businesses donated items to include in a gift basket raffled off during the event. Additionally, area vendors were on-hand offering permanent jewelry, juices and IV therapy. People also filled out pink ribbons to honor people impacted by breast cancer.
“It was a very emotional day,” Mike said. “I was one year out from my own cancer journey, and it was inspiring to see so many people there to support the cause.”
Expanding into a Monthlong Movement
Inspired by Mike and Kelli, 22 additional HOTWORX franchises organized fundraising events in 2024. Together, the events raised more than $14,000. This year, more than 150 studios are organizing 30 Minutes to HIIT a Cure events throughout October.
“It’s amazing to see how this concept has taken off,” Mike said. “We’re bringing the HOTWORX community together in support of an important cause. We’re also able to educate those who aren’t members about the benefits of our program. It’s a great partnership, but, more importantly, it’s the right thing to do.”
Ready to HIIT a Cure?
This October, more than 150 HOTWORX locations are hosting 30 Minutes to HIIT a Cure fundraising events. A HOTWORX membership is not required to participate.
Find your nearest participating studio, make a donation and step into the heat to sweat for a cause.
Statements and opinions expressed are those of the individual and do not express the views or opinions of Susan G. Komen. This information is being provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Persons with breast cancer should consult their health care provider with specific questions or concerns about their treatment.
