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Exercise New Zealand has advised that at the halfway mark of the Fit 4 Office (F4O) Challenge, New Zealand Members of Parliament from across the political spectrum are proving that even the busiest schedules can include time for movement.

ExerciseNZ launched the challenge on 5th March 2025, as a three-week initiative to promote regular movement while fostering a friendly competitive spirit among Members of Parliament.

With 11 MPs actively engaging in the challenge using Myzone heart rate monitors, the competition is heating up as they strive to lead by example and inspire Kiwis to prioritise physical activity.

Participants track their movement using Myzone wearable technology, aiming to accumulate 1,000 Myzone Effort Points (MEPs) by the challenge's conclusion. Myzone monitors record MEPs based on heart rate data, measuring effort rather than just steps or distance. This system ensures that all activity is fairly tracked, with points awarded based on the intensity of exercise rather than duration alone, making it an inclusive and motivating tool for participants of all fitness levels.

At the halfway point, the top five participants have all soared past this milestone and look to be on the right path to hitting the 3,000 MEPs milestone if they maintain this effort.

Standout Performers So Far
As the competition reaches its midpoint, three MPs from three different political parties have distinguished themselves as frontrunners:

1. Mark Mitchell (National) - 2169 MEPs
2. Julie-Anne Genter (Greens) - 2036 MEPs
3. Jan Tinetti (Labour) - 1848 MEPs

ExerciseNZ Chief Executive Richard Beddie acknowledges the commitment MPs are showing and notes “this challenge is not just about competition; it’s about demonstrating that movement matters. The participation of our MPs reinforces the importance of incorporating daily activity, no matter how demanding their roles are.”

The Power of Movement
Scientific research consistently highlights the benefits of regular physical activity, including:

• A 4% improvement in overall fitness with just 15 minutes of movement per day.
• A 12% boost in energy levels.
• An 8% increase in sleep quality.

Long-term benefits include a longer life expectancy and reduced risk of serious conditions like cancer and dementia. Additionally, research from Deloitte has found that physical inactivity costs the New Zealand economy over $2.3 billion annually, including $650 million in increased healthcare costs.

What’s Next?
With one week remaining, MPs will continue their push towards gaining the sought-after MEPs points while inspiring New Zealanders to add more movement to their day -whether through structured workouts, active transport, or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

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