As a former nurse. Iowa Lt. Gov. Patty Judge says, "I know that improving our health begins with each of us, as individuals. We must eat healthier, stay active, and live better."

To do just that, she is offering an easy, fun way to do so—the "Your Heart is in Your Hands" Challenge.

This free, 12-week incentive-based program rewards you for doing 30 minutes of activity, such as walking, gardening, or playing sports. A gym is not required. The fun, everyday summer activities can be as simple as mowing the lawn, waking with your family, or gardening.

In addition to physical activity, you can earn points for eating better and embracing healthy nutrition habits.

When you reach your goal, you will receive the Lt. Governor's Medal of Wellness.

Sign up and click on "Register", fill out a few simple questions, set your goals, and get ready for a summer of wellness.

Over the next 12 weeks, you and hundreds of fellow Iowans will take the necessary steps to eat healthier, and exercise more.

Heart Health by the Numbers

US Statistics *

• 1: Rank cause of death in United States and Iowa
• 631,636: Number of heart related deaths last year
• 72 million: Number of obese American adults
• 25.1 million: Number of adults with heart disease
• 11 percent: Percentage of U.S. adults with heart disease
• 19 percent: Percentage of U.S. children who are overweight
  

Iowa Statistics **

• 9,200: Number of Iowans who died due to cardiovascular disease
• 90,000: Number of Iowans who have had a heart attack
• 60,000: Number of Iowans who have had a stroke
• $1.3 billion: Hospital charges accumulated by Iowans due to cardiovascular disease
• 75 percent: Percentage of Iowans who ate less than 5 servings of fruits or vegetables per day
• 67 percent: Percentage of Iowans who are overweight or obese
• 54% Percentage of Iowans who lack physical activity
  

Earn Points for Eating Right

Here is a list of fruits and vegetables you can choose from. For each serving you earn 1 point.

Fruits may be fresh, frozen, dried or canned. 1 serving is equivalent to 1 small fresh fruit, 1/2 cup of canned or frozen fruit, 1/2 cup of fruit juice, or 1/4 cup of dried fruit. Fruit juice must be 100 percent fruit juice.

Vegetables may be fresh, frozen or canned. 1 serving is equivalent to 1/2 cup cooked vegetables or 1 cup of raw vegetables.

Earn Points for Staying Active

Here is a list of activities you can choose from. For every 30 minutes you complete of your chosen activity, you'll earn the number of points listed. Staying active and earning points is easy and fun.

For more information:

Sign up for the challenge

• Heart Health by the Numbers
• Earn Points for Eating Right
• Earn Points for Staying Active
• Earn Points While Enjoying Iowa Summer Activities