MARSHALL — The COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot of people’s routines, including health and fitness routines. But organizers at the Marshall Area YMCA are hoping to get community members moving again, with the help of a virtual fitness challenge.

The STRONG health challenge starts Monday, and runs for the next six weeks, said Alyssa Miessner, director of member engagement at the Marshall Area YMCA.

“This is a free community-wide virtual event, open to everyone,” Miessner said. “You do not need to be a member of the YMCA in order to participate.”

Miessner said the STRONG challenge is being promoted by YMCAs around the country, as a way to help communities “reset” and work on staying healthy.

The challenge can be done from home, and there are options for people at different fitness levels.

“Whether someone is working up to walking around the block or preparing to run a marathon, there is something for everyone,” she said.

Participants in the challenge commit to doing 20 minutes of movement, five days a week for six weeks, Miessner said. Participants will also get virtual content, like text messages and emails, that connect to a theme for that week. There will also be a private Facebook community for the Marshall Area STRONG Challenge, where participants can encourage each other and celebrate achievements.

“From motivation, encouragement, workout ideas, to nutrition tips and tricks, we are here to support each other through this challenge,” Miessner said. She said the Facebook page will also be the place to check out information on pop-up workout classes and recipes. There will even be some prizes awarded through the Facebook community.

Getting started with the STRONG Challenge is as simple as making a text. Miessner said people who want to participate can sign up by texting STRONG to 844-229-9622, and following the link to complete the registration for and join the Marshall Area STRONG Challenge Facebook community.