The U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command is introducing a new program designed to create a healthy working force. The MRMC Health and Wellness program encourages and promotes the "total fitness" concept to improve all aspects of health, including physical, mental, spiritual, etc., ultimately increasing productivity and enhancing the work environment.

The MRMC Health and Wellness challenge is designed to get employees up and moving.

"The program is designed to challenge participants every step of the way, and a positive attitude and strong motivation will help you while you're trying to get fit in this process," advises Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Stuart.

"Our country is becoming besieged with people who are not fit, putting them at risk for heart disease, diabetes, obesity and other medical issues, such as cancer and back problems," Stuart warns. "Just remember, we can beat these diseases and ailments by staying active, eating right, and getting an adequate amount of sleep every day."

The goal of this all-encompassing total wellness program is to motivate and encourage employees to get fit and incorporate exercise and healthy dietary habits into a daily routine. Targeting all aspects of wellness, the program's major categories are physical fitness, nutrition, and mental health.

The program operates under a points-based system that offers incentives to individuals and units earning the highest point totals at the end of the challenge.

"I challenge everyone to make health a priority and fitness a part of the everyday routine," said Stuart.

Get started on the road to a healthier life today by visiting https://wellness.amedd.army.mil/.