For the second year in a row, Bermuda's oldest insurance company has begun an initiative to help people train for the Catlin End-to-End walk or run the Bermuda Day Half-Marathon Derby.

Argus is working with physiotherapists, personal trainers and athletic clubs to launch the Argus Challenge, which will provide custom training schedules for runners and walkers.

Running participants will be given a six-month training schedule to help get them in shape for the Bermuda Day Half-marathon Derby on May 24, 2010.

Anyone can get involved with the programme as schedules have been designed for beginner, intermediate and advanced runners.

Yves Paul, a local fitness trainer, will lead Monthly "power hours" for runners. Registered participants will also be able to take part in training sessions at Swan's Running Club and the Mid-Atlantic Athletic Club.

Those who choose to participate in the Catlin End-to-End, Middle-to-End or Fun Walk on May 1, 2010, will be provided with a training schedule that fits their needs.

Those walkers participating in the Argus Challenge will have the opportunity to attend a series of "Wellness Walkers" training sessions organised by the Bermuda Physiotherapy Association.

Participants will be invited to attend informative lectures about the right footwear, following the right diet and marathon training throughout the challenge period.

Gerald Simons, President & CEO of the Argus Group said: "As the Island's oldest health insurance provider, the Argus Group wants to encourage a culture of physical fitness in Bermuda. We hope the challenge will help participants to create a habit of exercise that they will continue long after they reach their goal of completing one of these significant events."

To sign up for the Argus Challenge go to www.bermudatiming.bm. A registration fee of $30 is required with participants receiving free T-shirts available for collection at the new Argus Building at 14 Wesley Street.

Argus organised a similar programme in 2008 called the Argus 400 Challenge. The Argus 400 was designed to motivate people for the Bermuda Day Half-Marathon Derby. While the Argus Challenge will provide a similar framework as The Argus 400 Challenge it has been expanded for people who wish to participate in the Catlin End-to-End event as well.

For more information on the Argus Challenge, call Argus' Customer Service Centre on 298-0888 or email: arguschallenge@argus.bm.