Wellness In Motion
One of the best parts about hosting events at Rugged Wellness MN is seeing people show up exactly as they are—ready to move, connect, and challenge themselves in their own way. Our Forest & Field Trail Run in October 2025 was a perfect example of that, and one participant in particular left a lasting impression on our community: Dana Zimmerman, a former Paralympian living with Cerebral Palsy.
Dana Zimmerman, Paralympian and Forest & Field Trail Run Participant
Meet Dana
Dana Zimmerman is not defined by limitations—he’s defined by determination. A former Paralympic athlete, he represented the United States in two Paralympic games and won a silver medal in the 1500M at the games in Sydney, Australia. Dana has spent much of his life proving that an active, adventurous lifestyle is possible with Cerebral Palsy (CP). CP is a neurological condition that affects muscle tone, movement, and coordination, and it presents differently for every individual. Dana is living proof that it doesn’t have to be a barrier to getting outside, staying active, or trying something new.
His journey is a reminder that strength looks different for everyone, and Dana approaches it with humor and grit.
The Forest & Field Trail Run Lap Race
The Forest & Field Trail Run, hosted at the Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center, brings together athletes at all levels that share an appreciation for community, nature, and a physical challenge. In this lap race format, participants had 45 minutes to conquer as many 1.25 mile loops of the trail as they could. Our top finisher this year completed 6 total laps!
Dana participated alongside fellow athletes, embracing the trail, muddy terrain, and positive energy of the group.
Post-race snacks always taste better when you share them with a fellow runner!
Raising Awareness About Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy is often misunderstood. While it is the most common motor disability in childhood, many people don’t realize that individuals with CP continue to pursue athletics, careers, and outdoor adventures with confidence.
By participating in events like the Forest & Field Trail Run, Dana helps broaden the narrative around CP. He challenges assumptions and opens the door for more inclusive conversations about wellness, recreation, and accessibility.
Why This Matters
At Rugged Wellness MN, our mission is to create outdoor wellness experiences that are grounding, empowering, and that build community.
Dana’s participation perfectly reflects what we care about most:
Getting outside
Moving with intention
Building a community of healthy adventurers
More than a race—this is community, connection, and growth.
Our goal is to offer events with openness and intention that create opportunities for connection that go far beyond the trail.
Looking Ahead
Moments like these are what rugged wellness is all about—real people, real effort, and shared experiences outdoors. We’re grateful to Dana for being part of the Forest & Field Trail Run and for continuing to inspire others through his example. His story encourages us to approach wellness with compassion for ourselves and others.
Thank you to everyone who showed up for the Forest & Field Trail Run, embraced the challenge, and chose growth over comfort. That’s the kind of community we’re proud to keep building.
Interested in future Rugged Wellness MN events? Follow along on social media or check out our events page!