Today at the Takoma Aquatic Center, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced FitDC, a comprehensive health and wellness initiative that links residents to nutrition and physical fitness resources in their communities. Mayor Bowser was joined by Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Brenda Donald, Director of the DC Department of Health Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt and Acting Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation Keith Anderson.

“As we build pathways to the middle class for residents in all eight wards, it is equally important that our residents are healthy and living active lifestyles,” said Mayor Bowser. “Through this initiative, we will educate, encourage and challenge our residents to adopt healthier life choices.”

FitDC will also feature coaches from every ward who will assist residents in achieving their personal health and wellness goals and accessing local resources. For details about the application process including audition dates, visit www.fitdc.com.

“We want to make sure that DC residents, across all eight wards, can access these readily available resources and enjoy the benefits of an active, healthy lifestyle,” said Deputy Mayor Donald.

Today’s event featured a 1.5 mile Ward Walk, which aims to encourage residents to get active by participating in a group walk/run in and around their neighborhoods. Other activities included healthy food demonstrations and samples, physical fitness activities and contests.

“We launched FitDC because we’re committed to the idea that everyone has the ability to improve their personal health if provided with the knowledge and support to take control and accomplish their goals,” said Dr. Nesbitt. “The next step for this initiative is recruiting the FitDC Coaches, local residents who will lead the fitness challenges, serve as role models, and encourage residents to eat healthy and move more.”

“We’re excited to launch FitDC for the residents of Washington, DC and more excited to see our partnership with the DC Department of Health grow with the inclusion of neighborhood FitDC Coaches, Ward Walks, and other activities in DPR facilities,” said Anderson.