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Rise to the Challenge

Are you ready to get fit? Are you looking for the motivation to begin an exercise program? Rise to the challenge by participating in the 2008 National President’s Challenge. What began as a national youth fitness test has grown up. Today, the President’s Challenge takes staying active beyond the school gym, and into everyday life.

What is the National President’s Challenge?
The National President’s Challenge is a physical activity challenge designed to get Americans up and moving. The challenge begins March 20, 2008, and ends May 15, 2008.

All you have to do is be active five days a week for six of the eight weeks between March 20th and May 15th, 2008, and log your activity at the President’s Challenge Web site. Activity goals are based on age.

For kids ages 6 to 17, the activity goal is 60 minutes a day. For adults age 18 and older, 30 minutes a day is all it takes. The activity is up to you. Shooting hoops. Jogging. Karate. Skateboarding. There’s no limit to what you can do. Be a part of the program. Try new things. Make new friends. Plus win awards for doing your favorite activities.

When you’ve completed your six weeks of activity, you can download a free certificate or purchase pins, T-shirts, sport packs, medals and more. The governor of the state with the highest participation percentage will be declared the national winner. Special recognition will be given to governors of the top five participating states.

Why should I participate in the National President’s Challenge?
Participating in the National President’s Challenge could be one step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle. You can join the challenge on your own or create a group with friends, family members, co-workers or others. It’s good for you, it’s fun, and it’s free!

“Two-thirds of American adults are obese or overweight, and kids are three times more likely to be overweight today than they were in 1980,” says Edward Laskowski, M.D., a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., co-director of the Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine Center, and member of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. “The good news is that small steps can help to turn the tide. Getting active is part of the solution, and the National President’s Challenge is a way to get started. By participating, you can be a role model for others, including your family. Register today, and take an important step toward improving your health!”

How do I get started?
The 2008 National President’s Challenge begins March 20, 2008, and ends May 15, 2008. You can register for the challenge at the President’s Challenge Web site from March 1, 2008, through April 3, 2008.

You can register as an individual or with a group to participate with friends, family or co-workers. Once you see the difference staying active can make, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner. So make a choice. Get fit! Get started today!