North Texas non-profit uses running to support addiction recovery

A North Texas non-profit organization is helping individuals recovering from addiction rebuild their lives through physical fitness and community support, NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth reported. The group, called Running for Renewal, connects participants through exercise, faith, and personal encouragement to help them maintain long-term sobriety. [1]

According to NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth, the organization brings participants together around a shared goal of crossing the finish line at a 5K race in Little Elm. While initial sobriety is difficult to achieve, staying sober is a lifelong journey that benefits from structured fitness and accountability. [1]

Anthony Ysasaga serves as the founder and executive director of the non-profit, NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth reported. Ysasaga created the program based on his personal experiences after struggling with alcohol addiction and experiencing repeated relapses over several years. [1]

Ysasaga eventually achieved sobriety through a 12-step recovery program, NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth said. Following his recovery, he began incorporating regular physical exercise into his daily routine as a core component of his personal renewal. [1]

Human endurance running originated millions of years ago before becoming a widespread health activity in the 20th century. Organized jogging movements in the 1970s helped transform running into an accessible community activity focused on long-term physical health. [3]