Mars’ latest marketing for its Marathon Bar hopes to combine athletes, Facebook, inspiration and prizes.

The company will be encouraging fans to “Rock On” for their health in 2012, asking them to “Like” Marathon Bar on Facebook, make a personal healthy pledge and share what inspires them to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

Each week, pledge participants will be eligible to win prizes such as training gear, Rock “n” Roll Marathon Series race entries, Marathon Bar products, and more. Athletes also will gain access to nutrition and training tips from experts in each field, support and encouragement from Team Marathon Bar members, as well as tools to help them train no matter what sport they specialize in.

“With more and more people making a push to lead an active, healthy lifestyle, the Marathon Bar pledge is the perfect platform to keep yourself accountable, encourage others, and build a community of like-minded individuals and showcase the taste and nutrition credentials of our Marathon Bars,” says Ellen Thompson, marketing director for Mars Chocolate North America. “We are excited to celebrate and reward athletes of all skill levels who make the pledge to ‘rock on’ with Marathon in 2012.”

Leading the 2012 Marathon Bar athlete community will be Olympic marathon bronze-medal winner and American record holder Deena Kastor, and health and wellness expert Dr. Janet Brill.

Both women will provide Marathon Bar community members with nutrition, training and preparation tips and advice, and join the community at select races and special events throughout the year.

“While running may be an individual sport, know the importance of training with a strong team,” say Deena Kastor. “As both an elite athlete and busy mom-on-the-go, I am very eager to provide as much motivation and guidance as possible so my fellow Marathon Bar athletes can fit workouts into their already active lives so they can run their day, their way this season.”

Marathon Bars are energy snacks inspired by the Snickers flavor profile. Each one features protein and vitamins and is 150-290 calories per serving.