Greater New Bedford Fitness Challenge Starts Jan. 8

The New Bedford Fitness Challenge kicks off Sunday, Jan. 8, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Boys & Girls Club, located at 166 Jenney St. in New Bedford.

According to South Coast Today.com, the first day of the challenge will be a packed with fitness classes, yoga, massages, exhibitors, food, and prizes. At 11 a.m., there will be a high-energy kickoff fitness class led by nationally accomplished instructor Jeff Costa.

The fitness challenge will run for three full months and will conclude on April 8. A closing ceremony will recognize participants in various award categories.

Challenge participants will gain access to a full three-month calendar of health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness offerings throughout the Greater New Bedford area. “This includes fitness and exercise classes, yoga, meditation, massage, reiki, sound healing, mindfulness sessions, nutrition classes, cooking demonstrations, self-care, wellness classes and health screenings, plus access to physicians and nutritionists to answer any questions about healthy eating and active living. Participants can attend as many or as few offers as they choose.”

Challenge coordinator Ashley Bendiksen stated that this year’s theme for the event is about being “Fit to Live.”

Participation is open to anyone in the Greater New Bedford area for a one-time registration fee of $5. This fee allows participants to access all offers and classes during the challenge. Registration is only allowed for those who are 16 and older. Participants can register individually or with a team.

Registration will take place at the kickoff event. Online registration is also available at newbedfordfitnesschallenge.com. Individuals can also register at the first class they attend at any time during the challenge, but to be eligible for awards they must register by Jan. 31.

More information about the Greater New Bedford Fitness Challenge is also available on newbedfordfitnesschallenge.com or facebook.com/nbfitnesschallenge.

With additional reporting by Sal Lopez