The 16th Challenge event, the halfway mark for the four-month series, was led by Ray Gendreau of FitWorks at Re-Creation on March 8, 2014. Over 75 Challenge participants followed Gendreau's instructions as he took them through a cardio workout that kept them moving for nearly an hour. "Ray and the FitWorks staff really challenge the participants to move and stretch practically every muscle in their bodies," commented Challenge Coordinator Brittany Bertone. Southcoast Dietitian Amanda Raposo and Partners Executive Director Dr. David Weed followed the work-out with a group discussion of how to follow a low-carb diet for weight loss and health. Sponsored by Greater Fall River Re-creation, Partners for a Healthier Community, Saint Anne's Hospital, Southcoast Hospitals, the Challenge includes programs provided by All Generations Fitness, the Diabetes Association, Inc., Fitness Fusion, FitWorks, General Fitness. Greater Fall River Re-creation, Striking Beauties, TKO Fitness, Wiggle Kids, and the Fall River YMCA. The Challenge offers low cost opportunities for those who live, work or attend school in the Greater Fall River Area. Click here for a  ten-minute video of the event. Click here for photos of the fourteenth event. Call Annemarie Holly at 508-679-0922 for more information or go to www.FallRiverFitnessChallenge.com.

(First and second rows) FitWorks Fitness Leader Ray Gendreau demonstrates two of the many cardio exercises that he challenged participants to try. (Row three) FitWorks leader Lucia Rebelo demonstrates deep knee bends while Megan Mello and Donna Spaulding follow along. (Row four, left and center) Re-Creation staff member Mitch Coughlin hands out raffle ticket before Partners Challenge Coordinator Brittany Bertone announces the winners. (Row four, right) Bela Rebelo finishes the workout. (Bottom row, left) Sisters Wendy and Kim Cole and Robin Noverca pose for a photo at the end of the session. (Bottom row, center) Southcoast Dietitian Amanda Raposo leads a group discussion about low-carb diets for weight loss and health following the Challenge. (Bottom row, right) Ray Gendreau joins his wife, Tabitha, and the rest of the FitWorks staff for a group shot.