Health goals can feel daunting, especially when faced alone. But community health challenges, like the Healthier Texas Community Challenge, offer a unique and supportive way to make meaningful progress. This year, as we celebrate our 13th Annual Challenge, we’re embracing the power of 13 to highlight why these initiatives can transform wellness outcomes. Drawing from authoritative sources like MyPlate.gov, CDC, Create Better Health, and SNAP-Ed, here are 13 reasons why joining a community health challenge can help you reach your goals.

13 Reasons

1. Accountability Through Community: According to the CDC, having a support system increases the likelihood of sticking to healthy habits. The Challenge offers built-in community accountability to keep you motivated.
2. Shared Nutrition Resources: MyPlate.gov emphasizes balanced eating, and our Challenge resources provide guidance on meal planning and nutrition, making healthy choices simpler and more accessible.
3. Support for All Ages and Abilities: Health challenges accommodate all levels of fitness, supported by Create Better Health’s research showing that community-based programs are effective for people across the lifespan.
4. Boost Physical Activity Levels: CDC research highlights that community-driven physical activities can improve overall fitness and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The Challenge encourages daily movement in fun and engaging ways.
5. Educational Tools for Wellness: We provide education on healthy habits, similar to the programs promoted by SNAP-Ed, which emphasize nutrition and physical activity education for lasting impact.
6. Focus on Hydration and Wellness: Staying hydrated is crucial, as underscored by MyPlate.gov. The Challenge helps participants prioritize hydration, contributing to overall well-being.
7. Healthy Competition for Motivation: Friendly competition can boost motivation. According to the CDC, healthy peer challenges increase engagement and encourage consistency.
8. Mental Health Benefits: The CDC states that regular exercise can reduce improve overall mental wellbeing. Participating in community challenges promotes these benefits while connecting you with others and forming a social support system.
9. Holistic Approach to Health: Like Create Better Health suggests, community programs that address physical, emotional, and social health are more effective. Our Challenge incorporates all three!
10. Structured Goal Setting: We teach participants to set SMART goals, a method recommended by SNAP-Ed for achieving and sustaining positive behavior changes. We go a step further however by encouraging, supporting, cheering you on, and even being available for assistance in overcoming obstacles along the way!
11. Improved Nutrition Awareness: By leaning into guidance offered by MyPlate.gov, the Challenge helps you understand and apply nutrition principles in your daily life.
12. Family-Friendly Activities: Engaging the whole family in wellness is essential. Research from Create Better Health indicates that families who participate together build healthier habits.
13. Celebrate Community Wins: Finally, our 13th Annual Challenge is all about celebrating collective success. Research from SNAP-Ed shows that shared achievements strengthen community bonds and increase program effectiveness.

The Healthier Texas Community Challenge is more than a health trend; it’s a movement rooted in science and community. As we celebrate our 13th year, we’re inviting you to experience the power of 13—13 reasons to make a difference. Join us and see how small steps, backed by trusted resources, can lead to big changes. Together, we thrive!