Storm Fitness Challenge Inspires Good Health and Community Goodwill

SEATTLE, July 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- In conjunction with its Take Your Health by Storm initiative, sponsored by LifeWise Health Plan of Washington, the Seattle Storm is launching a four-week fitness challenge that turns active living choices into donations to the Sports Scholarship Program at Boys & Girls Clubs of King County. The Storm Fitness Challenge will be hosted by EveryMove.org, an online and mobile activity tracking platform that automatically syncs with more than 150 popular fitness tracking devices, will track the fitness activities of each participant.

"This partnership, and the growth of the Take Your Health by Storm presented by LifeWise initiative, is further opportunity for Storm fans to get out and get active," said Karen Bryant, Storm president and CEO. "I could not be more proud of LifeWise for stepping up with a donation commitment, driving motivation for the Storm and giving the Seattle community an easy way to engage in fitness activities."

Everyone who participates in the Storm Fitness Challenge will earn points based on their level of activity and those points will add up to personal rewards and a charitable donation. The Storm is providing exclusive rewards for participants including complimentary Storm tickets and autographed items. By getting involved in the challenge participants will also get moving for a good cause, as LifeWise Health Plan of Washington is committed to donating up to $7,500 to the Sports Scholarship Program at Boys & Girls Clubs of King County.

"As a health support partner for our members, employees and the community we serve, LifeWise Health Plan of Washington shares Boys & Girls Club's commitment to encouraging youth to live healthy, active lives," said Jim Havens, CEO of LifeWise Health Plan of Washington. "Participating in sports at an early age can be a powerful tool in the development of lifelong health habits. We are excited to support this sports scholarship program through the Storm Fitness Challenge and give up to 75 youth from all walks of life the opportunity to participate in a sports league."

To get started with the Storm Fitness Challenge, participants can enroll online at www.everymove.org/storm. Enrollment will be open throughout the challenge, but participants are encouraged to sign up early to help ensure the maximum charitable donation. Beginning July 14 through August 10, participants will track their "Active Days" through the web site or any number of fitness tracking devices connected to EveryMove, which will contribute to the charity challenge as well as their individual rewards.

"EveryMove's fitness tracking network is designed to enable a community of health-conscious organizations that want to support consumers in turning fitness into real-life tangible benefits," said Russell Benaroya, CEO of EveryMove. "EveryMove makes it easy for anyone to participate – more than 100 different activities count! The Storm and LifeWise teams have organized some stellar rewards and a noble charitable cause. It's going to be a lot of fun and we look forward to joining the Seattle and greater Washington community in moving for a great cause."

For every "Active Day" participant's log, LifeWise Health Plan of Washington will donate $1 to Boys & Girls Clubs of King County up to $7,500.  LifeWise Health Plan of Washington and the Seattle Storm share the Boys & Girls Clubs commitment to encouraging youth to live healthy, active lives. The donation will provide many youth with the chance to play the sport of their choice at local Boys & Girls Clubs.

"Boys & Girls Clubs of King County is honored to have been selected by LifeWise as the beneficiary of the Storm Fitness Challenge. Providing youth with the tools to lead a healthy lifestyle is a key component of our core values," said Calvin Lyons, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of King County. "We are excited to invite our community to get active this summer to raise money for our sports scholarship program and give youth, who might not otherwise have the opportunity, a chance to experience the many social, mental and physical benefits of being in a sports league."

Storm Fitness Challenge participants will be recognized at the Storm's final regular season home game on Aug. 17.  For more information about the Storm Fitness Challenge, visit everymove.org or StormBasketball.com.

About Seattle Storm

The 2010 WNBA champion Seattle Storm is one of six independently owned teams in the WNBA, the world's most successful women's professional team sports league. Established in 2000, the Storm is committed to bringing outstanding professional basketball to a fan base rich with tradition and support. The Storm leads the way for change in the community with outreach programs for youth basketball, health and fitness. The organization looks to be an inspiration for girls and women while providing support and motivation to better the Puget Sound. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit StormBasketball.com.

About LifeWise Health Plan of Washington

More than 87,000 people turn to LifeWise Health Plan of Washington for their individual or family health coverage. And the reason is simple: we actively support all of our members' healthy decisions. From the healthy foods you eat to the activities you take part in, LifeWise is a health partner that provides tips, tools and encouragement you can use to live the healthiest life possible.

Founded in 2002 and based in Mountlake Terrace, Wash., LifeWise is part of a family of companies that cover more than 1.9 million people. Together, we provide a number of products and services that include health, life, vision, dental, stop-loss, disability and workforce wellness programs. For more information, please visit www.lifewisewa.com.

About EveryMove

Founded in 2012, EveryMove is the first fitness tracking network that strives to get millions of Americans who are investing in their health the recognition and real-life rewards they deserve.The patent-pending EveryMove points system translates over 100 different physical activities into a common metric, which allows a growing network of retailers, employers and health plans to offer recognition and tangible rewards for an active, engaged community. EveryMove is also the leading integrator of fitness tracking apps and devices. Join in the movement at www.everymove.org.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of King County

Boys & Girls Clubs offer dozens of different athletic programs fostering teamwork, participation, fairness and citizenship in a fun, supportive atmosphere. All Club members, regardless of athletic ability, are encouraged to participate in youth sports, with trained coaches offering instruction and advice. Our sports programs give kids the opportunity to learn new skills, have fun and build positive self-esteem.

SOURCE LifeWise Health Plan of Washington