Arlington firefighters are among those from seven towns competing to improve health and fitness, including weight loss and blood pressure. The 12-week challenge, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, began this week. 

Firefighters began by participating in biometric screenings to evaluate their overall health and fitness. During the screenings, each received an Action Tracker. The device is programmed to sense the movement of steps resulting from walking, running, and other activities.

Town firefighters are comparing numbers for three months against those from Framingham, Hingham, Hudson, Ludlow, Peabody and Rockland. 

Throughout the 12 weeks, firefighters will take part in nutrition seminars, onsite physical training sessions, healthy cooking demos. They will be provided with health and wellness resources, such as online tools, books, and wellness articles, to help them with their progress.

Results will be determined and awards given out in April for the firefighters and towns that have improved their health and wellness the most.