By Paul Davidson
January is a natural time to make commitments to improve areas in our lives, and health is often a key component.
The Wellness Warriors Challenge, which has been underway since October, is a special FJMC International program designed to encourage Jewish men to take action steps towards improving their well-being. Originally planned to sunset in December, it has been extended and is now being enhanced because of the great need to encourage better health for men.
For the past several decades, there has been increasing awareness of a gap in our organization regarding health and fitness. We have decided to take a more engaged role in promoting both education about and opportunities for wellness improvement for our members.
Preserving health is a central Jewish value and we are eager to make this a higher priority for men. The Torah teaches us to “Take the utmost care of yourself; and guard yourself scrupulously” (Deut. 4:9). This challenge is a call to heed that commandment and to get more active through walking, jogging, running, biking, yoga, strength training, swimming or whatever helps you to take the next step in improving your health.
We are encouraging people to seek sponsors to help keep them accountable and as a form of encouragement for your efforts. I have committed to walking more than 300 miles in three months, and began a weight training program 4x/week to help build muscle and continue my weight loss journey.
At the same time, this will serve as a fundraiser for FJMC and our partner. The money we raise will support further health and wellness initiatives, regional programs and the mission of the Obesity Action Coalition, the nation’s top advocacy group for the treatment and rights of those with obesity, one of our primary targets for improvement.
Additionally, your involvement with this challenge will be the kickoff for a full series of offerings for those in FJMC to build a supportive community of learners and doers in terms of physical, emotional and spiritual wellness. Our broader program is called L’Chaim! and it is here to improve all of our lives. You can look forward to a brand-new Health and Wellness newsletter, regular webinars, HMV programs and ideas to bring to your club and region to spread the health.
We look forward to you participating in Wellness Warriors and all the offerings we will be rolling out in 2026.
To sign up or to sponsor me in the Wellness Warriors Challenge, click the link to make a difference. https://causematch.com/wellnesswarriors/davidson. To life!
Paul Davidson is one of the coordinators of the Wellness Warriors Challenge.
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