Staying active has innumerable benefits, from improving cardiovascular health to building strong bones to boosting our mood. One of the very best ways for people of all ages and abilities to get moving is by walking. This isn’t just an effective form of activity; but it can also serve as a mode of transportation and allow you to spend more time outdoors and connect with your community.

In September 2015, the Surgeon General announced the Step It Up! Call to Action, which recognizes the importance of physical activity for all and calls upon the nation to prioritize and support walking and walkable communities. One way ACE has answered this call is by offering two free walking toolkits—one for community organizations and individuals and another for fitness professionals. These toolkits provide a variety of unique ideas for people who want to start walking regularly or lead a walking group—a great way to unite people and get them moving.

To honor the one year anniversary of the Call to Action, the Surgeon General has announced the Step It Up! Walking Challenge, powered by Fitbit. The challenge encourages you to track your steps over a two-week period while enjoying some lighthearted competition. People who track their steps take an average of 2,500 more steps per day—that’s about 450 miles per year!

Enrolling in the challenge is a wonderful way for you and those around you to come together and improve your health. You can enroll beginning today, October 5, and then walk it out as much as you can from October 13-26. ACE has created our very own Step It Up team and we’re excited to get up and be active throughout the day. Sometimes all we need to get started is a little extra boost, so sign up today and join us in the race to get moving!

Here are some fun walking stats to share and get you moving!