The Mayor’s Fitness Council launched FitCitySA Fitness Challenge, the latest in a series of initiatives designed to steer San Antonians onto the road to better health. The Challenge aims to encourage and help residents to be among the healthiest and most active communities in the nation.
“San Antonio has been viewed as having some of the greatest food and friendliest people in the nation,” said Mary Ullmann Japhet, Chair of the Mayor’s Fitness Council. “And today we want to be known for leading the nation in health and fitness, too.”
The Mayor’s Fitness Challenge aims to engage residents on all fitness levels and create both a community and a slightly competitive atmosphere among participants. To enroll in this free program, simply login to www.fitcitysa.com, create a profile, and track your activity. Physical activity can range from walking the dog to playing sports with friends. The YMCA of Greater San Antonio is providing a one year membership at any of the area YMCAs as the grand prize.
The FitCitySA Fitness Challenge is open to individuals 13 years or older, groups or organizations. The web site (www.FitCitySA.com) provides a wealth of resources for residents to locate free and low-cost physical activity opportunities and healthy eating options in their neighborhoods, and track their activities.
The goal is for participating adults to track at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly; 60 minutes daily for youth. Participants challenge themselves as well as their friends and family members to become more active.
Residents are encouraged to register during the month of October to celebrate the holiday season with better health, energy and spirits.
Things are changing in the Alamo City. Community-wide efforts have been underway during Mayor Julián Castro’s term to improve healthy habits and reduce obesity in San Antonio, and recent national rankings are proof that the city is making a change.
“There has been a surge in residents taking to our hike and bike trails within the last year,” said Ullmann Japhet. “We’re also finding that San Antonians are appreciating B-cycles on loan at dozens of locations throughout the city, and outdoor fitness centers at area parks. We want kids and adults to take advantage of our outstanding facilities and programs, have a great time and make fitness part of their lifestyles.”
Key health and fitness initiatives in San Antonio include free fitness in the park classes, outdoor fitness stations, Síclovía, FitPass SA, community-wide walking groups, the B-Cycle bike share program, and a robust network of greenway trails through the city.