The Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its participation in the 2012 BizicallyFIT Health Challenge. The web-based challenge offers Minnesotans a way to kick off 2012 with some healthy competition. Together, teams of coworkers, friends and family will earn points for healthy behaviors like dropping extra pounds and physical activity. Teams from businesses, community groups and families all over Minnesota will compete for online rankings, virtual trophies and the satisfaction of a healthier lifestyle.

“We are excited to be able to offer this competition to our members. The 2012 BizicallyFIT Health Challenge is an excellent way for individuals to get more involved in their health,” said Randy Kehr, executive director of the chamber. “One of the exciting things about this competition is that it allows businesses to create teams with their employees and continue discussions about healthy lifestyles and their affect on health care costs. Over the past several years health care costs have been serious issues for our members and while we have been proactive in that regard, we are excited to be able to offer another team oriented program that brings wellness to the workplace.”

The 2012 BizicallyFIT Health Challenge is another step toward a lifetime of good health. This challenge offers three core metrics: pedometer steps, exercise minutes and weight loss percentage. Anyone in the Freeborn County community can begin by registering as a team captain and inviting people to join your team! Teams can range in size from 1 to 11.

New this year – participants will be able to create mini-challenges and more easily interact with team members and rival teams. The Challenge is open to anyone who lives or works in Minnesota, age 18 and older.

Registration began Monday, the Challenge will begin Feb. 13 and competitors will enter their final activities on May 4. Sign up to receive registration information at http://mnalliance.org/2012healthchallenge.