Recovery Runners to Compete in NYC Marathon Sunday
Nine members of Back on My Feet aim to reach the marathon finish line to support their ongoing journey toward sobriety.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Running
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Andres Vega and eight other members of the nonprofit organization Back on My Feet will compete in the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon on November 1. This 26.2-mile race marks a significant milestone for participants working toward sobriety and personal self-sufficiency.
Why it matters
For individuals navigating recovery, structured physical activity programs can provide essential community support and routine. Organizations like Back on My Feet utilize running as a vehicle for rebuilding self-worth and establishing long-term health habits.
Nine members of Back on My Feet are set to compete in the 26.2-mile marathon. The outcomes of this participation, including individual finish times compared to previous benchmarks, remain to be seen following the race.
The players
Andres Vega
A runner in recovery who credits physical activity for his sobriety.
Back on My Feet
A nonprofit organization that uses running and community support to help members achieve self-sufficiency.
Bombas
A clothing company that provides apparel and support for charity-based athletic training programs.
The details
Back on My Feet facilitates recovery by offering members structured group runs three days a week alongside personalized mentoring and support workshops. These programs focus on fostering self-sufficiency and emotional stability, which participants often cite as key components in maintaining sobriety. Bombas contributes to this effort by providing necessary training gear and socks to the runners.
Timeline
Andres Vega struggled with alcohol between the ages of 16 and 29.
The TCS New York City Marathon takes place on November 1, 2026.
Health Landscape
The Back on My Feet community-based running model represents a growing trend of integrating physical fitness with peer support networks to address addiction recovery. This approach prioritizes social connection and routine as foundational elements for sustained health and self-sufficiency.
Engaging in consistent physical activity can serve as a supportive pillar for those managing recovery, though it is a strategy to discuss with your primary care provider to ensure it aligns with your personal health goals. Establishing a regular routine, such as group-based exercise, may help in building the consistency needed for long-term habit formation.
The takeaway
Maintaining long-term sobriety often benefits from the structure and social connection found in organized, goal-oriented activities like running. Consult with a medical professional or a licensed counselor to identify support systems and community programs that align with your health journey.
Further reading
For more on the health benefits of structured community programs, explore Running.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WPIX.
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Do you believe participating in group exercise programs helps individuals maintain long-term recovery from addiction?
