Frequently Asked Questions
-
Getting started is easy! To participate in the 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge, simply:
Complete the Interest Form.
Once approved, attend the participant orientation, where you'll learn how the challenge works, how to use your fitness tracker/smartwatch, and how to track your progress. (The date, time, and location will be shared with approved participants.)
Complete a brief health questionnaire (at orientation).
Receive your fitness tracker/smart watch and instructions for downloading and using the mobile app (at orientation).
Start walking and work toward completing 100 miles by the end date.
That's it! Walk at your own pace, track your progress, and enjoy the journey toward better health, stronger connections, and healthy aging.
-
The 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge is open to adults ages 60, of all fitness levels. Whether you're new to walking or already enjoy regular walks, you're welcome to participate.
The challenge is designed to be flexible, allowing participants to walk at their own pace and progress in a way that is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.
-
The 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge is offered during designated program dates each year. Once you're accepted into the program, you'll receive the official challenge schedule, including the start and end dates, participant orientation, and other important information.
We encourage you to express interest early, as space may be limited.
-
The goal of the 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge is to help older adults build healthy habits that support lifelong wellness. By walking 100 miles over 100 days, participants are encouraged to improve their physical health, stay active, strengthen social connections, and enjoy the many benefits of regular movement.
This challenge isn't about speed or competition, it's about taking meaningful steps toward healthier aging, one mile at a time.
-
No. You do not have to walk every day. The goal is to complete 100 miles over the 100-day challenge, so you can walk at a pace and schedule that works best for you.
Whether you walk a little each day or several miles a few times a week, every step counts. Listen to your body, stay consistent, and enjoy the journey toward better health.
-
Tracking your progress is easy! Each participant will receive a fitness tracker/smartwatch to help monitor their daily steps throughout the challenge. The smart watch will connect to a mobile app for the duration of the program, making it easy to track your progress toward your goal.
As you walk, your steps will add up over time. Approximately 2,500 steps equals 1 mile, or about 20 minutes of walking. Actual step counts and walking times may vary based on your stride length and walking pace.
Every step brings you closer to your 100-mile goal!
Your Privacy Matters: The mobile app is used only to track your steps during the challenge. It does not collect or monitor any other personal information or activity.
-
Don't worry! Missing a few days won't keep you from reaching your goal.
The 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge is designed to fit your lifestyle. Simply pick up where you left off and continue walking at a pace that's comfortable for you. You can always add a little extra distance on another day if you'd like.
Remember: It's not about being perfect, it's about making steady progress. Every step counts!
-
No. You do not need a physical or medical check-up to participate in the 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge.
Before you begin, you'll complete a brief health questionnaire to help us better understand your current health and fitness level.
If you have a chronic health condition, have recently been hospitalized, or have concerns about starting a new physical activity program, we encourage you to consult your healthcare provider before participating.
-
For most healthy adults, you do not need to consult your doctor before participating in the 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge.
However, if you have a chronic health condition, have recently had surgery or been hospitalized, experience chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath during physical activity, or have concerns about starting a walking program, we encourage you to consult your healthcare provider before participating.
The challenge is designed to be flexible, allowing you to walk at your own pace and progress safely based on your individual comfort and ability.
-
No. There is no cost to participate in the Aging 100 , 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge.
The challenge is offered free of charge to eligible participants, including the use of a fitness tracker/smart watch for the duration of the program.
-
You can walk anywhere that is safe, accessible, and comfortable for you. Popular options include your neighborhood, local parks, walking trails, indoor shopping malls, community centers, fitness tracks, or on a treadmill at home or at a gym.
Choose a location that matches your comfort level and mobility. Whenever possible, walk with a friend, family member, or walking group to make the experience more enjoyable and stay motivated.
The best place to walk is wherever you feel safe, supported, and inspired to keep moving.
-
Yes! The 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge is a virtual fitness challenge.
You can participate from wherever you live by walking in your neighborhood, at a local park, on a walking trail, at a shopping mall, on an indoor track, or on a treadmill, wherever you feel safe and comfortable.
Throughout the challenge, you'll track your progress using the fitness tracker/smart watch provided by Aging 100. You'll also receive encouragement, healthy aging tips, and updates throughout the challenge.
No matter where you walk, you'll be part of the Aging 100 community, taking steps toward a healthier future, together.on.
Please note, participants will need to attend the in-person orientation, and in-person, end-of-challenge celebration. -
Absolutely! The 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge is designed to be inclusive and accessible for older adults of all mobility levels.
Participants are encouraged to use the mobility aid that best supports their safety and independence, whether that's a walker, cane, wheelchair, rollator, or other assistive device.
The goal is to move safely, stay active, and improve your overall health at a pace that's comfortable for you. Every step, and every mile, counts toward your journey to better health.
Please note: If you use a wheelchair, please contact the Aging 100 team before the challenge begins. We'll work with you to identify the best way to track your activity and ensure you can fully participate in the challenge. -
There's no daily minimum or maximum. The goal is to complete 100 miles over 100 days, so you can walk at a pace that works best for you.
As a general guide, walking about 1 mile a day, approximately 2,500 steps or 20 minutes, will help you reach your goal. However, you can choose to walk longer distances on some days and take shorter walks or rest on others.
The most important thing is to stay consistent, listen to your body, and enjoy the journey. Every step counts!
-
On average, 1 mile is approximately 2,500 steps. However, the exact number of steps may vary depending on your stride length, walking pace, and height.
As a general guide:
1 mile ≈ 2,500 steps
1 mile ≈ 20 minutes of walking (at a moderate pace)
Don't worry about being exact, the goal is to stay active, keep moving, and make steady progress toward your 100-mile goal.
Every step brings you closer to 100!
-
For most people, walking 1 mile takes about 20 minutes at a comfortable pace. However, everyone's walking speed is different, so your time may be shorter or longer depending on your pace, fitness level, and mobility.
The 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge is designed to fit your lifestyle. Whether it takes you 15 minutes or 40 minutes to walk a mile, every step counts toward your goal.
Walk at a pace that's safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for you.
-
The primary goal of the 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge is to encourage regular walking as a simple, safe, and effective way to support healthy aging.
However, we understand that everyone's abilities are different. If you have a medical condition or mobility limitation that makes walking difficult, please contact the Aging 100 team before the challenge begins. We'll work with you to determine whether another approved activity can be substituted and how your progress can be tracked.
Our goal is for every participant to take part in a way that is safe, enjoyable, and appropriate for their individual abilities.
-
Yes! Participants who successfully complete the 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge will get to keep their smart watch as a reward for their commitment to healthy aging.
The smart watch is yours to continue using after the challenge to help you stay active, monitor your daily steps, and maintain the healthy habits you've built throughout the program.
Keep moving. Keep tracking. Keep living a healthier life.
-
At the end of the 100 Miles in 100 Days Walking Challenge, we'll celebrate your accomplishments and recognize the commitment you've made to your health and well-being.
Participants who complete the challenge will:
Receive a Certificate of Achievement
Keep their smart watch as a reward for completing the challenge
Celebrate with fellow participants at a recognition event
Be recognized for reaching the 100-mile milestone
Receive information about future Aging 100 wellness programs and walking opportunities
Most importantly, you'll finish the challenge with healthier habits, greater confidence, and the knowledge that every step you've taken is an investment in your future.
-
Indoors
Walking indoors is a great way to stay active, especially during hot, cold, or rainy weather. Keep these safety tips in mind:
Choose a well-lit, clutter-free walking area with a smooth, non-slip surface.
Wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes, even when walking indoors.
Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs, electrical cords, or clutter from your walking path.
If you're walking in a shopping mall or community center, stay aware of other pedestrians and follow posted walking routes.
Use handrails when available, especially on ramps or stairs.
Keep water nearby and take breaks when needed.
If you're using a treadmill, start at a slow speed, use the safety clip if available, and hold the handrails when getting on or off. Once you're comfortable, avoid holding the rails while walking unless you need them for balance.
If you use a walker, cane, or rollator, make sure there is plenty of space to move safely and turn around.
Stop immediately if you feel dizzy, experience chest pain, become unusually short of breath, or feel unsteady.
Great Indoor Walking Locations
Shopping malls
Community and senior centers
Indoor walking tracks
Fitness centers
Your home
Local recreation centers
No matter where you walk, the safest walk is one that's comfortable, enjoyable, and fits your ability. Every step counts!
Outdoors
Your health and safety are our top priorities. Follow these simple tips to make every walk safe and enjoyable.
Before You Walk
Wear comfortable, supportive walking shoes.
Dress for the weather and wear bright or reflective clothing when walking early in the morning or evening.
Drink water before and after your walk.
Warm up with gentle stretches and start at a comfortable pace.
During Your Walk
Walk at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Stay on sidewalks, walking paths, or well-lit, familiar routes whenever possible.
Be aware of uneven sidewalks, curbs, loose gravel, and other tripping hazards.
Obey traffic signals and always look both ways before crossing the street.
Carry your cell phone and a form of identification.
Walk with a friend or family member whenever possible.
Listen to Your Body
Take breaks when you need them.
Stop walking if you experience chest pain, dizziness, severe shortness of breath, or feel unwell.
If symptoms persist, seek medical attention immediately.
Walking with a Mobility Aid
Use your walker, cane, rollator, or wheelchair if it helps you walk safely and confidently.
Make sure your mobility device is in good working condition before each walk.
After Your Walk
Cool down with gentle stretching.
Drink water to stay hydrated.
Record your steps and celebrate your progress.
Remember
Walking is not a race. The goal is to move safely, stay consistent, and enjoy the journey.
Every step brings you closer to 100.
-
Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support healthy aging. Regular walking can improve heart health, strengthen muscles and bones, increase balance and mobility, and help maintain a healthy weight.
Walking also supports brain health by improving memory and cognitive function, reducing stress, and lowering the risk of depression. Just as importantly, walking with others encourages social connection, helping to reduce loneliness and improve overall well-being.
Every step you take is an investment in a healthier, more active, and more independent future.
-
Staying motivated is easier when you make walking part of your daily routine. Set small, achievable goals, celebrate your milestones, and remember that every step counts.
Walk with a friend, family member, or neighbor, explore new walking routes, listen to your favorite music or podcast, and track your progress along the way. Most importantly, focus on how walking makes you feel, not just how far you've gone.
Whether you walk one mile or several, you're making an investment in your health and well-being.
Remember: You're not just walking 100 miles, you're taking 100 days of positive steps toward a healthier, more active future.
-
Please contact us using our Contact Form Here.