Low levels of physical activity, unhealthy nutrition, and poor mental health are all determinants of several chronic diseases. These behaviors are now considered major public health concerns and require effective behaviour change interventions. Fit Blue is a community-based campaign to increase physical activity and health awareness in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Building physical activity into the day does not require special equipment or a certain location. As participants take part in Fit Blue, they have tools to transition to a more active lifestyle focusing on eating healthier, moving more, and practicing mindfulness.

A smartphone-based application (FitBlueKY) is a four-week walking challenge focused on increasing participants’ participation in regular physical activity, choosing a nutritious diet, and improving health outcomes for Kentucky citizens. As an innovative strategy to improve and increase movement with Hopkins County residents, the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent partnered with Owensboro Health, Hopkins County YMCA, and Hopkins County Sheriff Department to implement(ed) a Fit Blue Challenge. 

With these community partners, every participant was provided incentives for participating in the program as well as accomplishing goals. Every participant received a 7-day free pass to Hopkins County YMCA along with a free month once completing the program. Additionally, the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Department provided running and walking safety classes. 

Through this program, participants focus on improving health behaviors by making lifestyle choices to increase physical activity and eat nutritious meals. Thirty-Two adults participated in this program. As a result of this program, 75 percent became aware of the befits of regular physical activity, 75 percent reported having gained the knowledge and skills to be physical activity, and as a result, 30 percent reported an increase in physical activity levels.

Concerning overall health status, 30 percent of participants noticed an improvement in one or more health indicators (cholesterol, blood pressure, body mass index, blood glucose). 

At the completion of the program, participants shared that they are monitoring their daily activity and are being more intentional about walking to places instead of driving. Two participants used the free YMCA passes and as a result of the access they both became members of the YMCA and are continuing to stay active.