Building on the momentum from the “Active U” fitness campaign, the Michigan Healthy Community Initiative (MHCI) is launching a new effort at improving the health and well being of faculty and staff.

Registration begins today (Sept. 11) for “Get in the Game,” a free, six-week, fun-filled physical activity and nutrition incentive program that will run Oct. 3-Nov. 14.

Fitting for fall, “Get in the Game” promotional materials feature a football sailing through goalposts logo, and a cheerleader with block “M” megaphone. While the focus of “Active U!” was racking up activity minutes, the focus of “Get in the Game” is about physical activity combined with better eating habits.

With 8,440 participating earlier this year in “Active U!”—twice the number expected—organizers of “Get in the Game” say they anticipate spirited participation for the newest Michigan Healthy Community program.

“We’re continuing to foster a healthy workplace culture,” said Dr. Robert Kelch, executive vice president for medical affairs. “It’s been demonstrated that even small steps toward health goals truly can make a difference. Increasing physical activity and improving nutritional habits helps us reach our goal of having a healthy, safe and satisfied workforce, and helps us make great strides toward preventing future health concerns.”

“Get in the Game” participants can sign up online or at MHealthy Tailgate kick-off events to be offered on all campuses. They choose weekly health improvement goals in the areas of physical activity and healthy eating, then track them online using the Healthy Habits Tracker. Participants have a great opportunity to take small steps toward a healthier life while learning more about fitness and healthy eating.

Participants who complete all six weeks of the program plus a post-program survey will receive a reusable biodegradable water bottle, and will be eligible to win additional prizes, while developing healthy habits that will last a lifetime. To foster a spirit of friendly competition, the organizational unit on each campus with the highest percentage of participation will receive a Michigan Healthy Community Trophy.

Staff members are asked to urge fellow employees to register online starting today or at any one of the MHealthy Tailgate events Sept. 18-21. Tailgate party-goers can enjoy refreshments and get wellness information from registered dietitians and ergonomics consultants, along with details about campus recreational opportunities and football-themed giveaways.

Tailgate kick-off events are scheduled for: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sept. 18 on the North Campus Diag; 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Kochoff Hall at the University Center, U-M-Dearborn; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sept. 20 in Michigan Rooms A, B and C, U-M-Flint; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 20 at the U-M Health System Hospital Link; and from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 21 at Ingalls Mall.

You must register by Oct. 3 to be eligible for prizes.

For more “Get in the Game” details or to register, visit www.Mhealthy.umich.edu.