Meet personal trainers, work out and receive freebies at May 18 rally
Join hundreds of Chicagoans in committing to living a healthy and active life at the fourth annual Chicago Moves Day on Friday, May 18, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St. Everyone is invited to this citywide fitness initiative that features instructors from local fitness clubs and organizations leading workouts and games. Special guest includes former Chicago Bear player Otis Wilson. The annual rally is presented by the Mayor's Fitness Council in cooperation with the City of Chicago and the Chicago Park District.

"Chicago Moves Day is during National Fitness Month and is designed to help Chicagoans make physical health both a priority and a habit," said Mayor's Fitness Council Executive Director Colleen Lammel- Harmon. "The rally raises awareness and highlights the many fitness opportunities available throughout the city."

Physical trainers will be on hand at Chicago Moves Day to get people motivated and give tips on how to maintain a healthy fitness regimen. Chicagoans of all ages are invited to participate in the many of fitness offerings for the day including workouts in cardio kickboxing, stretching, boot camp and Latin dance. Fleet Feet's 40-Yard Dash, interactive games and health screenings will also be offered. Additional presenting partners include the U.S. Army, which will present its unique workout, and Mayor Daley's Bicycle Ambassadors, who will discuss bicycle safety and riding techniques.

As part of Chicago Moves Day, the Mayor's Fitness Council Challenge is a call to action to get Chicagoans moving for at least 30 minutes five days a week. Making simple and enjoyable lifestyle adjustments helps in the formation of healthier habits and prevention of disease.

"The benefits of making small changes, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, are incredible," said Ingrid Kromer, former president of the Mayor's Fitness Council and national director for Bally Total Fitness. "We hope that we can help people take steps towards leading a healthier life and having fun in the process."

In addition to Daley Plaza, there will also be several satellite sites offering interactive opportunities, such as morning stretches and kickboxing workouts as well as discussions on body image and media, on Chicago Moves Day including:
o Orozco School, 1940 W. 18th St., 8:30 a.m.
o Prosser High School, 2148 N. Long Ave., 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
o Northwest Regional Center, 3160 N. Milwaukee Ave., 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
o All Chicago Park District facilities throughout the city will continue to provide recreation and physical activity.

The Mayor's Fitness Council is a nonprofit, volunteer organization whose mission is to encourage Chicagoans to eat better and move more, thus leading to a healthier lifestyle. Through a variety of educational and motivational materials, activities and public appearances, the Council strives to increase awareness of the importance of exercise and good health, and to ultimately make Chicago one of the "fittest" cities in the country.

Chicago Moves Day is presented by the Mayor's Fitness Council and Bally Total Fitness and sponsored by Fleet Feet, Xsport Fitness, YMCA, and Resurrection Health Care in cooperation with the Chicago Park District and the City of Chicago. For more information and a full list of the day's participants and activities, visit www.chicagoworksout.com.