By: Jenna Swope

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) — The University of Arkansas recreation kicked Fitober off last week at the start of the month.

Fitober is a challenge that encourages people to log 600 minutes of physical activity for the month. 

Those who log all their minutes are able to receive a Chartwells gift card that can be used on the U of A campus. 

The goal is for students to improve their mental and physical well-being through fitness. 

Jordan Jeffers, assistant director of wellness for the UREC, said fitness can be used as a way to improve mental health and a way to improve physical health. 

“Working out increases serotonin and endorphins, so that really contributes to a mood increase which can decrease depression.”

Casey Fant, director of wellness and fitness for the UREC, said students can break up the time to make it easier.

“One-hundred and fifty minutes each week may sound like a lot of time, but this is the recommended amount per week to improve general health,” says Fant. “Not only is it best to spread your activity out during the week, but you can break it up into smaller chunks of time during the day.  For example, try getting in 10-15 minutes of moderate or vigorous activity at least 2-3 times a day.”

Fitober takes place yearly and is free to everyone. The event does not require a UREC membership.