People in the community of Elk Grove came together to promote health and fitness in the 4th Annual 2013 Fittest of Elk Grove Competition on the 28th.

Citizens who live, work or go to school in Elk Grove competed for bragging rights and ultimately to test their fitness level.

“We get to really interact directly with the community to really make an impact,” said Marcus Morgan, an Herbalife health coach.

The event is very family friendly containing 4 individual age groups: 17 and under, 18-34, 35-49 and 50 plus.

“Many of the athletes have to work or be residents of Elk Grove,” said Kendra Lewis, a benefactor of the event, representing the Elk Grove Police Activities League.

The purpose of this event is to raise health awareness, as Sacramento is ranked the seventh fittest city in the United States, according to USA Today. With Elk Grove falling under Sacramento County’s jurisdiction, it’s easy to see why an event like this is taking place here.

The workout for both qualifiers, which consist of heavy lifting and intense cardiovascular  exercises, is the same to keep a fair playing field. The top three finishers in each division from each qualifier advance to finals, according to contest rules.

“Personally this is my first time competing, I plan to compete in the future.”  said Jake Adkins,  a competitor and a solar engineer with Energy. “We’re one of the venders out here, so this is a good time to get publicity.”

The event, which was held in Old Elk Grove was full of vendors from the health and fitness industry along with local business owners. All proceeds go to non profit organizations in the community including the events main benefactor, the Elk Grove Police Activities League.