MINNEAPOLIS, MINN February 26, 2016

While an education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is important to the future of space exploration, it is also important to remember that space is a harsh and unforgiving environment which places unique challenges on the human body. In an effort to encourage and educate people on the importance of health and fitness, The Mars Generation (TMG) will be hosting the Train Like a Martian Challenge April 18-24, 2016.

During the Train Like a Martian Challenge, TMG will post daily physical activity challenges inspired by NASA’s Train Like An Astronaut program.* Individuals, community groups, and schools around the world are invited to join in by completing these challenges or up to 45 minutes of any physical activity each day, then share pictures online using the #TrainLikeAMartian hashtag. Regional events are being planned in Huntsville, Ala., Minneapolis, Minn., and Central Florida on April 24 the same day Astronaut Tim Peake will run the London Marathon on the International Space Station.

The Train Like a Martian Challenge is also an opportunity for individuals and groups to fundraise in support of the mission of The Mars Generation. Prizes will be awarded for participation and fundraising efforts.

TMG works to excite young people and adults about space and STEM education through three primary programs. The Future of Space Program is a worldwide outreach program designed to gain excitement about STEM and build support for human space exploration. The Student Space Ambassador Program encourages teens and young adults to share their excitement about space exploration with their own communities. Finally, the Space Camp Scholarship Program provides financial backing for young people who lack financial resources but show an aptitude in STEM to attend Space Camp®.

Join the conversation at:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/themarsgeneration
Twitter: @TheMarsGen
Hashtag: #TrainLikeAMartian
For more information visit: themarsgeneration.org/train-like-martian-challenge or email ground support (dot) themarsgeneration (dot) org

*NASA is not affiliated with or sponsoring the Train Like a Martian Challenge