How to Keep Step Challenges Fresh
Hosting step challenges at your organization is a fun and effective way to help employees focus on their health. As it turns out, Fitbit data shows that users who participate in Fitbit’s in-app challenges take an average of 2,000 more steps per day than those who do not participate—which is about an extra mile of walking per day.
If you’re a fan of hosting step challenges at your company, but feel like you’ve focused on the same theme one too many times, like highest team step average, it may be time to switch things up. Check out these tips for keeping your step challenges fresh and fun:
Reward the most improved
Instead of rewarding the team or individual with the highest step count, recognize those who have made the biggest leap forward. Check out this blog post for details on how to run this challenge.
Get creative
The good news about steps is that there are lots of ways to get them. Ask employees to submit photos of themselves getting steps in creative ways—like taking a hip hop class, hiking a scenic trail, or even doing chores around the house. Just be sure to set guidelines so that people’s trackers stay with them, and not their furry friends! Select your favorite photos and feature them in the company intranet or a motivating mass email to your employees.
Applaud consistency
Consistency should never go unnoticed. Crown number 1 to the person or team who hit at least 10,000 steps the most days of the challenge. This is a great way to help employees form a healthy habit, and make it stick.
Look beyond steps
There are other activity-related challenges you can focus on besides steps. Try hosting a challenge that is centered around non-step related activity, such as active minutes or floors climbed. Employees will still reap the benefits of fitness challenges, such as camaraderie and healthy activity, but will also experience fresh and fun ways to stay active throughout the day.
This article is not intended to substitute for informed medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or condition. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, altering your sleep habits, taking supplements, or starting a new fitness routine.
