Congratulations on your decision to accept the Lt. Governor's Challenge!  As the fittest state in the nation, we recognize the importance of eating well and exercising regularly to improve our frame of mind, stay productive, lose and maintain our weight, and overall reduce our risk for chronic illness.

Our goal is not only to be the fittest state in the nation, but defy the trend of the rapidly increasing rates of obesity that we are experiencing just as much if not more than the rest of the country.  Therefore, Lt. Governor Barbara O'Brien, with the support of the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, AstraZeneca, Kaiser Permanente, and the Colorado Department of Health and Environment, is challenging the state to take advantage of all Colorado has to offer, get outside, and enjoy the variety of ways to lead an active life.

The 12 weeks of the program are designed to be a starting point for your introduction, continuation, or improvement on living a healthier life.  You choose which activities you enjoy and that best fit into your busy schedules.  Points are awarded on the basis of what that activity is and how long you are moving -- the more intense the activity, the higher the point value.  It is up to you, as the participant, to keep track of your activities.

Depending on the number of points you log during the 12-week period, you can be eligible for a gold, silver, or bonze medal.

Lt. Governor O'Brien recognizes that children, as well as adults, are just as much at risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other complications of obesity later in life if they continue down the road to a more sedentary lifestyle.  In the last 20 years, childhood obesity has more than doubled while teen obesity has tripled.  Currently, 1 in 10 children in Colorado are considered overweight.  Schools and families can help encourage kids to increase their daily physical activity inside and outside of school hours.

To register, go to http://www.ltgovernorschallenge.us