Rise & Grind Graduation

Reno, Nev (KOLO) There are so many benefit of exercise, and for a local group of women overcoming addiction, it is even more important.

"Rise and Grind" is a local workout program for women in recovery. They work out twice a week at 6:00 a.m. and attend nutrition classes once a week at American Iron Gym- all for free.

It was created by Grant Denton and Lisa Moore. They both overcame addiction themselves, and found that exercise was a big part of their recovery.

The women in recovery are from Life Changes, a sober-living program.

"I am recovering from meth, heroin and needles," said Kaitlin Royos.

Her addiction was her way of coping with life's hardships.

"I did not really have family because they were on drugs, so I was kind of passed around," said Royos.

Royos beat her addiction and is staying at Life Changes. She is using the exercise program to help her in recovery. She is one of five women participating in the program.

"A lot of these girls have to take depression medication or take medication that causes them to gain weight," said Moore, "With this program, you can see the huge change in them."

Life will always have its hardships, but these women now have a new way to cope.

"I have no control over anything but my own actions," said Royos, "That is what I have learned in the past few months. I have to fill my own void and I like it. I like me."

When the women complete the program they "graduate," and are given a free membership at American Iron Gym for a year.

They are having their next graduation April 13 at 6 p.m. at American Iron Gym.

The program is currently for women in Life Changes, but they want to expand to help more women in the community. However, they lack the funds to do so. If you would like to help you can send them a message here.