Table of Contents
Welcome to the Journey
Firstly, a massive congrats — to you for showing up.
You clicked on this guide, which means something inside you stirred.
Maybe you’re curious. Maybe you’re nervous. Maybe you’ve signed up already and now you’re wondering “What have I gotten myself into?”
Let us start by saying: you’re not alone.
Every single person who walks or runs at Race for the Cure 2025 brings something with them — a story, a scar, a memory, a quiet wish to feel strong again. Some show up with friends, laughter, and pink shoelaces. Others come with something heavier in their hearts. All are welcome. All belong.
You don’t have to be fast, seasoned, or in perfect shape. You only need the heart to show up and the willingness to move.
This guide isn’t about making you faster, leaner, or perfect.
It’s about helping you feel ready — physically, emotionally, and logistically — to show up for a cause that touches so many of us, in ways big and small. It’s about helping you understand the why, not just the how.
It’s about giving you permission to feel pride, joy, fear, hope — and still keep moving.
We here at ALGSO believe that movement is more than exercise. It’s healing. It’s solidarity. It’s one step, then another, taken together.
So whether you’re walking in memory of someone, running to celebrate recovery, showing up for your best friend, or just taking your first brave step back into movement — this guide is for you.
Take a deep breath. Tie your laces. Let’s walk through this together. Because as we say:
Move Together,
Heal Together
👇 Keep reading — we’ll help you get there.
Why Movement Matters During & After Cancer
Let’s be honest.
During and after cancer — the treatments, the hospital visits, the fear, the fatigue — the last thing you might feel like doing is putting on a pair of trainers and going for a walk or run.
And that’s okay.
Because cancer changes things: your body, your emotions, your sense of control. It doesn’t just leave behind a scar — it reshapes how you see yourself in the world.
But here’s what we know — from science, and from all of our ALGSO members who’ve lived it:
Movement helps put the pieces back together.
Not all at once. Not in dramatic, Hollywood-movie ways. But quietly. Steadily. A walk around the park. A gentle stretch. A jog that lasts a few seconds longer than the one before. These moments begin to build something:
💪 Confidence
💛 Strength
🧠 Clarity
🌿 Hope
And these aren’t just feelings — they’re measurable outcomes.
Studies from across the world have shown that regular physical activity reduces the risk of cancer recurrence, most notably (to date) in breast, colon, and prostate cancers.
It helps combat the fatigue, depression, and anxiety that so often linger long after treatment ends.
It boosts your immune function, improves your sleep, and even helps reduce inflammation at a cellular level.
In short? Movement is a form of medicine — and it’s available to you, right now.
Don’t Believe Us?
In a study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention they found that, for breast cancer survivors, regular activity of 150 mins of aerobic exercise and two muscle strengthening sessions per week lowers all-cause mortality by about 8 %.
(source: AACR)
Meta-analyses involving nearly 1.5 million cancer survivors showed physical activity after diagnosis significantly reduced cancer-specific mortality—especially in breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers, with a pooled hazard ratio (HR) of 0.69 for breast cancer.
(source: Ungvari, Z., Fekete, M., Varga, P. et al. Exercise and survival benefit in cancer patients: evidence from a comprehensive meta-analysis. GeroScience 47, 5235–5255 (2025))
Movement isn’t just exercise—it’s medicine.
At ALGSO, we’ve seen first-hand how walking, running, stretching, or dancing can bring someone back to themselves.
It’s not about “bouncing back.” It’s about reclaiming your body and independence, one mindful movement at a time.
So by joining a race, you’re not only supporting a cause—you’re strengthening your body, mind, and community.
That’s why events like Race for the Cure matter.
Because they aren’t just about raising awareness — they’re about proving that healing doesn’t stop when treatment does.
They’re about showing up — as you are, with what you’ve got — and moving in a way that feels right for you.
So if you’re nervous, hesitant, or unsure whether you can do it — know this:
Let’s walk this road together. Literally.
Keep reading — we’ll guide you every step of the way.
What Is Race for the Cure?
Have you ever wandered around another city, enjoying the tourist life and then stumble upon a huge gathering of pink t-shirts and banners? Chances are, that was one of the many Race for the Cure events!
Have you ever been confused about it because a few days ago you were in another country or city and saw that same event there?
Well, wonder no more! Here you’ll find a little more information on this colossal event:
Europe’s Largest Sporting Event for Women’s Health
Race for the Cure is recognised as Europe’s biggest sporting event for women’s health, designed to help breast cancer organisations and hospitals raise vital funds and awareness. Every year, thousands come together in solidarity under its banner.
With races taking place each year across countries all over the continent and people traveling from all over to participate, it truly is a tidal wave of pink power and a message loud and clear of the importance and effects of support and community.
A huge thank you to Think Pink Lux for bringing this meaningful event to Luxembourg, and for giving us all the opportunity to “pinkify” Echternach and our hearts for the day. 🩷
A Global Story Begun in Dallas
The race originated in the U.S., founded by Nancy G. Brinker after she lost her sister to breast cancer. The first event in Dallas in 1983 welcomed 800 participants and sparked a movement that’s now in over 140 cities across the world. In Europe, it brings together local charities and hospitals in a shared mission to support those affected.
Why It Matters
Approximately 500,000 fresh cases of breast cancer are identified annually in Europe alone, with an unfortunate 125,000 fatalities. The contributions gathered through Race for the Cure play a vital role in backing research, providing care, and increasing awareness.
Why It Resonates with ALGSO
Here’s where ALGSO steps in. The spirit of Race for the Cure—one of community, compassion, and movement—mirrors everything we stand for:
Physical Preparation Tips
How to Train for Race for the Cure — at Your Pace.
Race for the Cure is not a competition.
It’s a celebration. A moment to move in solidarity. A way to reconnect with your body, the outdoors, and a community that understands the deeper reasons why movement matters.
Whether you’re walking or running, here’s how to feel ready, without the pressure.
Start Gentle and Gradual
You don’t need to be a “runner” or even “fit” to begin preparing. You just need to start.
Begin with short walks:
If you’re feeling stronger:
💙 ALGSO tip: Listen to your body, not your stopwatch.
Consistency Over Intensity
Skip the “all or nothing” approach — it’s the fastest way to burn out.
Instead, aim for regularity over perfection.
Complement your weekly walks or gentle runs with balance exercises to increase your confidence and never skip a pre-workout warm-up and a post-workout stretch!
Find a balance that respects your energy levels while helping you build stamina.
And remember: consistent activity helps to reduce fatigue and emotional stress, making it gradually easier with each session.
Rest is Part of the Plan
Rest is not laziness. It’s part of your training programme.
Especially for cancer survivors or anyone living with long-term treatment side effects (fatigue, joint stiffness, neuropathy…), recovery days are essential. They allow your body to adapt, strengthen, and repair.
💙 ALGSO tip: Track how you feel, not just what you do.
Fuel and Hydrate
Your body is doing something wonderful. Support it with:
Make it Social (If That Motivates You)
Although we have a long list of activities peppered throughout Luxembourg and at various days and times of the week, your might prefer to do your own thing, and that’s ok!
Choosing to exercise outside of your regular classes doesn’t mean you have to be alone.
Some of us are black cats: independent, solitary and selective.
Some of us are Australian shepherd puppies: social and in need of company.
If you are the latter, fuel your work-outs with connection (in various forms):
You don’t have to do this alone — but you can if it helps.
The point is to move in ways that feel sustainable, respectful, and joyful.
If you are not yet a part of our ALGSO family and want to benefit from the many year-round activities (free for members) that we offer, click here below:
Rehearse the Route (If Possible)
Try a full “dress rehearsal”:
This will give you confidence and show you where to make small tweaks.
💙 ALGSO tip: If you’re nearby, take a walk around Echternach Lake and familiarise yourself with the terrain. It’s flat, scenic, and shady—not too hot, not too hard.
If You’re Returning from Cancer Treatment
Be extra kind to yourself.
Fatigue may still linger. Muscles might feel unfamiliar. But they’re yours — and they’re capable.
Our ALGSO coaches are here to advise, help and guide you every step of the way! So don’t hesitate to ask them your questions, they will be more than happy to answer them and help you find a great work-out plan to ease you back into movement. 💙
Emotional & Mindset Preparation
For your Heart, your Head, and Everything in Between.
We won’t sugar-coat it: taking part in Race for the Cure can stir up a whole mix of emotions — especially if cancer has touched your life (or someone you love). You might feel excited, nervous, uncertain, emotional… maybe all at once.
That’s not just normal — it’s human.
At ALGSO, we know that emotional readiness is just as important as physical preparation. So let’s take a few moments to care for your mindset, too.
It’s Okay to Feel Everything
Gratitude. Grief. Joy. Fear. Strength. Vulnerability.
You might feel some (or all) of these as the race approaches. Whether you’re:
Tears are welcome. Laughter is welcome. Silence is welcome.
There’s space for it all — and for you — at Race for the Cure.
💙 ALGSO reminder: “Strong” doesn’t mean “emotionless”. You can be brave and tender at the same time.
Tap Into Your Why
What’s your “why”: solidarity, healing, honour, or a personal milestone? Hold onto that—it’s your fuel when things feel tough.
Take a quiet moment and ask yourself:
Why am I doing this?
Write it down. Say it out loud. Carry it with you (in your pocket, on your t-shirt, on your wrist). Your “why” is your fuel when the road feels long — and your comfort when the tears show up.
Some examples:
💙 ALGSO reminder: This journey can evoke grief, pride, fatigue—or laughter. That’s fine. Celebrate each step. Even the quiet ones.
Use the Power of Community — If That Feels Right
Community is powerful. So is privacy.
If you’re someone who feels energised by others (hello Australian shepherd puppies):
If you’re someone who needs quiet (hello black cats!):
Whatever you need to feel safe and present — do that.
💙 ALGSO reminder: Knowledge is power, and knowing yourself will help you to experience this in the best way for you.
That being said, at the event, listen to yourself and give yourself permission to be positively surprised and go with the flow. You might need to pause the puppy and take a moment to yourself to recharge. Or you might need to let go of the cat to feel the magic created by supportive faces.
Be Gentle with Your Expectations
It’s all valid.
Give yourself permission to experience the day however you need to. There’s no script, no score, no perfect way to show up.
Don’t Let Comparison Steal Your Moment
You might see people jogging effortlessly, showing up in teams, laughing loudly…
And you might think, “Should I be doing more?”
No.
Your race, your pace, your story.
You belong just as you are — whether you walk every step, take breaks, or jog the whole route.
💙 ALGSO reminder: The only person you need to keep up with…is yourself.
Prepare for the “After”
Sometimes, the emotion doesn’t come during the race.
It sneaks in later — when you see the photos, when your body slows down, when the adrenaline fades.
That’s normal.
You just did something brave. Let yourself land.
Celebrate Every Step
Crossing the finish line isn’t the only achievement.
You’re not just “going for a walk” — you’re reclaiming movement as your own. You’re showing your community, and the world, that healing continues long after hospital doors close.
Supporting a loved one? Your presence there means more than you can imagine. You’re showing them, and the world, that support, love and encouragement play a vital role in cancer recovery.
And you’re doing it with hundreds of others, in unity and purpose.
Getting There: Transport & Parking
Everything you need to arrive safe, calm, and ready to move.
Whether you’re travelling solo, coming with loved ones, or joining up with Team ALGSO, here’s how to get to Race for the Cure 2025 Luxembourg, in Echternach on Sunday, 12 October.
Where is the Event?
The race takes place around the beautiful Echternach Lake (Lac d’Echternach) in eastern Luxembourg. It’s a scenic, flat, tree-lined area that’s ideal for walking and running — and has been home to previous editions of Race for the Cure Luxembourg.
🕘 Check-in starts at 9:00
🏁 First departure at 10:30
Coming by Car:
🅿️ Parking options near Echternach Lake:
💙 ALGSO tip: Arrive early — especially if you want a spot close to the lake or if you’re coming with children, pets, or mobility considerations.
🧭 GPS Tip:
Set your destination to “Lac d’Echternach” or use:
📍 Lac d’Echternach, 6464 Echternach, Luxembourg
Coming by Public Transport
While Echternach is not directly served by train, regular bus lines make it easily accessible from all over Luxembourg.
From Luxembourg City:
Where to get off:
Plan your trip:
🔗 Visit Mobiliteit.lu to check updated Sunday bus times closer to the date.
💙 ALGSO tip: Bring your race outfit or layers in a small backpack in case buses are chilly or busy.
Coming by Bike
Fancy a healthy, scenic warm-up? You’re in luck.
Echternach is connected by dedicated cycling routes from Luxembourg City and nearby towns, including the PC2 Echternach cycling path.
💙 ALGSO reminder: A gentle bike ride is a fantastic pre-race warm-up and an eco-friendly choice too!
Coming From Abroad?
If you’re travelling from Germany, France or Belgium:
- By car: Use the A1 motorway or route nationale connections — Echternach is just across the border from Germany.
- By train + bus: Arrive at Luxembourg Gare Centrale, then take a tram or bus to Kirchberg and from there, a bus to Echternach.
- By coach: Long-distance Flixbus or other European operators may arrive in Luxembourg City (most notably at the P+R Bouillon) — connect via public transport.
Accessibility Considerations
Race for the Cure aims to be as inclusive as possible.
If you:
👉 Please notify the ALGSO secretariat in advance so we can support your participation fully.
Race Day Checklist & What to Expect
So, race day is almost here. You’ve signed up (or you’re about to…), and you’re wondering: “What do I need to do to feel ready?”
Breathe. We’ve got you.
This isn’t about performance. It’s about presence. And we want you to feel as confident, comfortable, and cared for as possible — whether you walk, run, or simply show up in support.
The Basics
📍 Location: Lac d’Echternach
🕘 Check-in starts: 9:00
🏁 First departure: 10:30
🎗️ Race format: 3 km walk / 5 km run (exact distance TBC)
👟 Dress code: Pink, ALGSO shirt, or anything that makes you feel like you
Check out our dedicated event page to add this year’s Race for the Cure 2025 event straight to your calendar!
Gear Essentials
Luxembourg weather in October is… well, it’s Luxembourg weather.
Expect anything.
But the most important is: dress for comfort, not fashion (just make it pink).
What to Wear:
| Comfortable, breathable layers | Dress for movement, not photos (but don’t be surprised if we take some!) |
| ALGSO t-shirt and/or pink gear | Show your colours! Pink shows solidarity. ALGSO shows community. |
| A light, waterproof jacket | October in Luxembourg = sunshine, drizzle, breeze, surprise. Be ready. |
| Properly fitted walking or running shoes | With good support! (break them in ahead of time) |
| Sun protection | A cap or buff, sunglasses, sunscreen — yes, even in October. |
💙 ALGSO tip: Never try new socks, shoes, or clothing for the first time on race day!
What to Bring:
| Refillable water bottle | Stay hydrated — there may be refill points. Fewer plastic bottles = a win. |
| Snacks (if needed) | A banana, nuts, or a light energy bar before or after. |
| Charged phone | For pics, directions, emergency contact, or to tag us 😉 |
| Tissues or wipes | Because sweat and emotions may flow — and that’s okay. |
| Small backpack or waist bag | Keep hands free for high fives, hugs, or steady strides. |
What to Expect on the Day
💙 ALGSO reminder: This is not a race against anyone. It’s a run or walk with everyone.
Capture the Moment — or Don’t
Some people love documenting everything — the bib, the group selfie, the finish line joy. Others prefer to stay fully in the moment.
Both are perfect. If you do snap some photos, we’d love to see them!
📲 Tag us on Instagram or Facebook with #TeamALGSO and the event’s official #RFTC2025.
💙 ALGSO reminder: Our ALGSO photographer will be there too, so you’ll be able to relive the event through our Photo Gallery.
After the Race
If you’re coming with ALGSO:
What Comes Next?
Maybe you feel inspired to keep walking. Maybe you want to explore more ALGSO classes. Maybe you simply needed this and nothing more. All of that is okay.
But if this event opened a door for you — keep it open. Let it be the beginning of more movement, more connection, more life.
We walk to remember. We run to feel alive. We move to heal.
Stay Connected
We’d love to continue this journey with you.
See what’s coming up next with ALGSO.
Whether it’s yoga, walking, strength, or recovery-focused movement, there’s a place for you.
👇 Subscribe to the ALGSO Newsletter
Get post-race resources, gentle training plans, stories from fellow survivors and supporters.
Help Us Grow the Impact
From All of Us at ALGSO…
Thank you.
For trusting your body again.
For showing up with your story.
For moving beside us — and with us.
Whether this will be your first race or your fiftieth, we’re so proud of you.
See you soon!
Until then,
Keep moving.
Keep healing.
Keep being you.
— Your ALGSO Team