The 2010 Executive Health Challenge draws to a close this week as 175 businesspeople are put to the test.

Formerly known as Fittest Executive Challenge, the annual 10-week program has been retooled to focus more on individualized goals, while continuing to promote healthful lifestyles.

No calisthenics were included on this year’s pre- and post-testing agendas, helping to create a more non-threatening atmosphere for some deskbound contestants.

“In the past, part of the testing was push-ups and sit-ups” said Brett Saddoris, communications director for the YMCA of Greater Des Moines, noting that this year’s format is more inclusive of all fitness and wellness levels.

“We’re not saying if you want to win this you need to drop 20 pounds,” he said. “It’s very individualized.” Depending on a participant’s goals, that could mean eating less, exercising more or just getting up off the couch.

For restaurateur Mike Hutchison, it’s about moderation, discipline and heart health. “The change in focus of the Executive Health Challenge this year was right in line with where my mind was concerning my own personal health,” said Hutchison, who owns Star Bar and Azelea.

He said business and family obligations during the past few years have made pursuing healthful habits more of a challenge. But his reasons for getting in shape superseded those obstacles.

“I knew that I was rolling the dice with my health,” Hutchison said. “My blood pressure was up and I was 30-plus pounds overweight and wasn’t making good eating choices.”

Eating a big, meaty breakfast is one of Hutchison’s favorite things. But now, about five days a week, he trades the bacon and sausage for lean meats, oatmeal, fruits, almonds and other low-fat foods.

“I just changed my diet completely,” he said, adding that he’s committed to an exercise routine and has shed about 25 pounds. And though building muscle has slowed the weight loss, he’s not complaining about a firmer abdomen.

For Martha Lebron-Dykeman, who completed her first executive health challenge in 2008, the benefits go beyond the waistline and lifespan.

“I was more productive at work and more efficient with my schedule,” said Dykeman, a residential Realtor with Prudential First Realty. “I managed to get more done, even though I had added fitness activities to my days.”

As Dykeman’s energy level increased, so did her passion for sharing the program’s benefits.

“I went to the president of the company and asked him if he would support me in my quest to get others involved,” she said, noting that a number of her co-workers quickly signed on. “Now we are all a great support for one another, checking in on each other’s workouts and talking about healthy foods and supplements.”

Nutrition is Dykeman’s No. 1 focus this year.

Growing up in Puerto Rico, Dykeman said she was raised eating avocados. And though the rich fruit continues to be a staple of her diet, she has reduced her consumption, especially in dishes such as guacamole.

“At the end of a day, an avocado is good,” she said, noting that all the “extras” are not. “That’s usually what gets you,” she said.

A YMCA wellness coach also encouraged Dykeman to start a food journal in which she records what she eats everyday.

“The journal helps me be aware of what, when, how and why I choose to eat,” she said.

Butter is a food that Dykeman decided to cut out completely during the 10-weeks.

“The biggest revelation I’ve had is the frequency and proportion of my food intake,” she said. “Through the program, I have developed a new habit of planning for meals. It takes some extra time, but really makes a difference.”

The minimum requirements for the Executive Health Challenge include attending a nutrition class, talking to a wellness coach and exercising at least three days a week during the 10-week period, which began February 11.

Those who work out five days a week, meet twice with a wellness coach and attend two nutrition classes will be designated as “health leaders.”

Special recognition, including the designation of “health champion,” will be given to those who have made significant health improvements or behavior changes.

Improvements in weight, cholesterol, body mass index or blood pressure will be considered, as well as testimonials from wellness coaches and self reports from participants.

On April 22-23, Mercy Clinical Lab will conduct 15-minute post-test exams, which will include blood draws and body measurements. The tests will take place from 5 to 9 a.m. at the YMCA Healthy Living Center in Clive.

Presented by the Des Moines Business Record, the 2010 Executive Health Challenge is sponsored by the YMCA of Greater Des Moines and Mercy Medical Center – Des Moines.

“When I set my mind to something, I can generally accomplish it, and I finally have the focus and time to do it,” Hutchison said. “I’d like to see my grandchildren, I’d like to see my boys grow up and be successful.

“I have changed my approach to eating and am making good, healthy choices,” Hutchison said.

“My main motivation is to be healthy and live longer.”