New Zealand Parliamentarians lead by example as Fit 4 Office challenge wraps up

As the Fit 4 Office (F4O) Challenge concludes, Exercise New Zealand (ExerciseNZ) has congratulated all participating Members of Parliament for prioritising movement, proving that even the busiest schedules can accommodate physical activity.

Over the past three weeks, 11 MPs from across the political spectrum tracked their activity using Myzone heart rate monitors, demonstrating the benefits of regular movement while engaging in friendly competition.

The challenge set a baseline goal of 1,000 Myzone Effort Points (MEPs), with top performers exceeding 3,000 MEPs - an exceptional display of commitment. MEPs measure exercise intensity based on heart rate, rewarding effort rather than just time or distance. The longer participants sustained an elevated heart rate in an active zone, the more MEPs they earned.

Top Finishers
Recognising the top performing MPs who led the way in total MEPs, ExerciseNZ noted that the battler to be lead exerciser remained fierce throughout the challenge, with Julie Anne Genter, Celia Wade-Brown, and Mark Mitchell each leading at various points while Ayesha Verrall also held the top position for several days, demonstrating a strong commitment - primarily through running.

Their efforts highlight the broader dedication to movement and exercise within Parliament, setting a strong example for all New Zealanders.

The top finishers and their final MEP totals as of 11:59pm on 27th March were:

• Julie Anne Genter - 4,758 MEPs

• Celia Wade-Brown - 4,455 MEPs

• Mark Mitchell - 3,703 MEPs

ExerciseNZ also acknowledged Jan Tinetti and Ayesha Verrall, who each surpassed 2,000 MEPs doubling the initial challenge goal while Mark Mitchell recorded the most regular high-intensity workouts, exemplifying leadership as Minister of Sport and Recreation.

Commending all MPs for their dedication, ExerciseNZ Chief Executive, Richard Beddie stated “the Fit 4 Office Challenge was designed to inspire movement and show how achievable it is to prioritise physical activity.

“Seeing MPs embrace the challenge, support each other, and set an example for New Zealanders has been fantastic. This isn’t just about competition - it’s about reinforcing the message that every movement counts toward better health.”

Movement Matters - Beyond the Challenge
Though the F4O Challenge has ended, ExerciseNZ emphasises that the need for regular movement continues. Physical inactivity costs the New Zealand economy over $2.3 billion annually, including $650 million in healthcare costs - highlighting that movement isn’t just a personal benefit but a national one.

ExerciseNZ, alongside Myzone, thanks all MPs for their participation and commitment to leading by example, adding “their efforts demonstrate that, despite demanding schedules, physical activity is achievable for everyone.”

Image: ExerciseNZ's Richard Beddie (centre) with Talani Meikle from GRC Partners and Mark Mitchell - New Zealand Mark Mitchell Minister of Sport and Recreation - at the start of the F4O Challenge.