Abbotsford Mayor Bruce Banman is one of four Lower Mainland city leaders undertaking a new kind of political race.

Banman is taking the 90-day Healthy Community Challenge along with mayors Peter Fassbender of Langley City, Diane Watts of Surrey and Coquitlam's Richard Stewart.

Being a politician, Banman loves a challenge.

"I don't know if this is a competition but if it is, I plan on winning."

The four mayors, who have individual fitness goals, plan to train up to three times per week for 12 weeks and document their progress.

"Before I die, I'd like to see my abs one more time, and my resting heart rate is a little higher than I'd like," said Banman.

To encourage residents in their respective communities to join the fitness challenge, the mayors will open up recreation centres at no cost to those that join the three-month project.

Banman hopes to lead by example and show that despite a busy schedule, it's possible to take time out to be more healthy and fit.

"Hopefully, other people in Abbotsford can do it too," he said.

"Exercise is the single greatest thing someone can do to positively affect their personal health."

Sign up for the free 90-day Healthy Community Challenge on March 10 at the Abbotsford Recreation Centre, 2499 McMillian Road, from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information and to participate in the fitness project visit www.healthycommunitychallenge.com or email info@healthycommunitychallenge.com.