NORWICH – When Cherie Miner and the employees of the Norwich Video King began a friendly weight loss challenge between their store and the neighboring Fashion Bug, they had no idea the competition would soon grow to include eight local businesses and a total of 55 people.

The 12-week Get Fit Challenge, officially began on Sept. 17, and with weekly prizes and team support, Miner is hoping the challenge will encourage people to lead a more healthy life. Currently employees from Rent-a-Center, P&C Markets, M&T Bank, NBT Bank, Bassett Health Care and the Pennysaver are participating in the challenge.

“We decided our mission was to help others incorporate healthy life style changes to feel better about themselves and be healthier,” Miner said. The Video King employee is not a fitness expert, but she said she has battled with fitness issues and is willing to share what she has learned with others.