City of Rochester Recognized for Commitment to Physical Activity and Mental Health

The National Forum for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention recognizes Mayor Kim Norton and the City of Rochester for participating in the 2025 Move with the Mayor® Spring Mental Health and Physical Activity Challenge.

This national challenge encourages residents to move more, connect with others and support their mental and physical well-being. Held during May's Mental Health Awareness Month, the initiative is led by the National Forum in partnership with the American Public Health Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

48 cities participated in the Spring Challenge, hosting 101 events to encourage residents to move more and connect.

"Move with the Mayor® has brought our community together in meaningful ways," said Mayor Norton. "Whether it's walking with neighbors or starting new wellness partnerships, this challenge helped us take active steps toward a healthier, more connected Rochester."

Local Highlights:

• Bike to Work Day - May 16, 2025
  • Residents were encouraged to bike to work, visit local businesses along the way and connect with fellow riders. Several participating businesses offered treats and highlighted local shopping opportunities.

• Med City Marathon - May 17-18, 2025
  • The 29th annual Med City Marathon brought more than 1,500 participants to Rochester. Events included the Marathon, Marathon Relay, Half Marathon, 5K, Kids Race and Health & Fitness Expo. For race results and event details, visit the Med City Marathon website.

• Med City Meander - May 24, 2025
  • Hosted by We Bike Rochester, this scenic bike ride highlighted local trails, businesses and family fun. The day featured live music, a kid-friendly obstacle course and an after-party at Little Thistle Brewing. For more information, visit the Med City Meander - Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota website.

• Walk the Downtown Skyways
  • Community members were invited to explore Rochester's skyway system using walking maps available on the City's website.

• Move with the Mayor Tracking Sheet
  • Residents were encouraged to log their physical activity using a downloadable tracking sheet. Completed forms returned to the Office of the Mayor were entered to win prizes.

The City also completed a partnership mapping exercise to identify opportunities to strengthen collaboration across local organizations and support long-term community health goals.

This effort aligns with the Mayor's Year About Youth initiative, which focuses on celebrating and supporting children and youth through programs that promote connection, creativity and well-being.

By participating in Move with the Mayor®, Rochester joins a growing network of cities working to improve public spaces, invest in mental health and help residents of all ages thrive.

To learn more about Move with the Mayor®, visit natforum.org/connect-with-mwtm.

For information on the Office of the Mayor and the City's wellness and youth-focused initiatives, visit the City of Rochester Office of the Mayor website.