Tauranga workplaces are being challenged to get out from behind their desks and get active in three 'hilariously fierce” lunchtime competitions.

Starting February 27, the Cooney Lees Morgan Lunchbreak Battle includes indoor rowing, a K-Valley cycle relay and a scavenger hunt over three Thursday lunchtimes lasting 45 minutes.

The name of the game? 'To sit less and move more,” says Sport Bay of Plenty recreation team leader Sonia Lynds.

'The challenge is deliberately designed to be short and sharp so workplaces can easily take part during a lunch break.”

Inactivity is one of that main risk factors for heart disease and chronic conditions such as type two diabetes, says Sonia.

'There's some serious benefits to being active at work. Many of us can spend up to eight hours a day seated.

'The good news is that physical activity, in whatever form, is proven to lower the risk of health conditions, boost your mood and enhance your focus.”

Participants don't need to be sporty to enter, but Lynds says they should be prepared to work up a sweat and have 'loads of laughs”.

All events will be held in Tauranga central locations.

Entry and participation in the Cooney Lees Morgan Lunchbreak Battle is free, and entries close 5pm Friday, February 21.

Local businesses and organisations can enter multiple teams of four (two women and two men).Enter at sportbop.co.nz/lunchbreakbattle.