August 12, 2025, 3:00 AM HST

County of Hawaiʻi Mayor Kimo Alameda is launching a fitness initiative aimed at improving the health of residents and reducing chronic illness across Hawaiʻi Island.

The “Hawaiʻi Island Mayor’s Fitness Challenge,” which began on Monday, Aug. 11, and will conclude in February 2026, focuses on five key areas: heart health, strength, balance, flexibility, and weight management. Residents are encouraged to engage in daily activities designed to enhance their overall health and fitness:

Heart health: Engage in 30 minutes of cardiovascular activity each day.

Strength: Complete a number of push-ups each day equivalent to your age if under 60, or half your age if over 60.

Balance: Complete a number of squats each day equivalent to your age if under 60, or half your age if over 60.

Flexibility: Practice touching your toes daily without bending your knees and then move to other areas.

Weight management: Adopt a diet that helps you achieve a pants size you can be proud of by the end of the challenge.

“It is my hope that this challenge will motivate us all to strive for better health,” Alameda said. “Hawaiʻi Island has faced its share of health challenges, and I am determined to turn the tide by promoting wellness and community spirit.”

The challenge will conclude with a family health fair in Kona and Hilo in February 2026. Participants who can demonstrate two of the five targets at the event will be eligible for prizes. Alameda emphasizes that while everyone will start from different fitness levels, the primary goal is to set personal targets and make consistent progress.

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“Our collective commitment to these daily activities will ensure that in six months we are all healthier and more energized,” he said. “Let’s come together to make Hawaiʻi healthier one day at a time.”

The challenge is open to all residents. Individuals and communities are encouraged to support one another in this journey toward improved health and well-being. Updates and health tips will be shared on social media to keep participants motivated and informed.

Alameda advises that participants may want to check with their physician before starting any physical activity or altering their regular diet.

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