GetFitTexas! provides Texans with the tools needed to establish regular physical activity routines and healthy habits. This program includes a free online activity tracking system and an educational component emphasizing the benefits of regular exercise and healthy choices.
With more than 55,000 participants using the on-line tool to log their fitness activities, thousands of Texans have seen great improvements to their overall health. All users are encouraged to participate in the Governor’s Challenge, by completing and logging 30 minutes of physical activity at least five days per week for six weeks. Each spring Texas Round-Up issues Governor’s Challenge Awards to cities, state agencies, schools, social organizations, families and friends that have the highest participation per capita in their respective categories.
To encourage children to establish healthy habits, Texas Round- Up’s FitKids program not only includes the Governor’s Challenge for children, but also educates children about nutrition and fitness through fun activities and programs.
The FitKids newsletter and coloring book are the latest additions to our resources for children. Current FitKids activities include a FitKid Challenge, searching for a young spokesperson to motivate other children to make healthy choices; T-shirt design contest, where the winning design will be used on the T-shirt for the Family Mile at the 5th Annual Texas Round-Up in April 2008; Kid Chef contest, where the winning healthy recipes will be available online and distributed at special events. Future plans include an interactive website.
The Affiliate Cities program puts Texas Round-Up programs in local communities across the state. Any mayor in Texas can affiliate with the Texas Round-Up at no cost by promoting GetFitTexas! in their community or hosting a local fitness event. Current Texas Round-Up affiliate cities can be found on our Affiliate Cities page.
The Texas Round-Up 10K, 5K and Family Mile is held annually in Austin, Texas on the last Saturday in April. Race weekend begins with a health and fitness expo showcasing vendors and sponsors. The race is followed by a fitness festival where families can enjoy live music, food, fitness demonstrations and family friendly activities. Many participants spend months training for Texas Round-Up, and for several participants, the Texas Round-Up is their first race, making the events a very special accomplishment and a true celebration of healthy living.
In 2004, Governor Rick Perry launched the Texas Round-Up statewide fitness initiative and 10K race to motivate and encourage Texans to become more active and to incorporate healthy choices in their daily lives. Today, Texas Round-Up is an independent not-for-profit organization working to improve the health of Texas through education and promotion of physical activity and healthy living. Texas Round-Up provides Texans with tools, opportunities, and programs that encourage and allow for Texans of all ages and fitness levels to participate.