Worldwide research is showing what most of us have known intuitively: Physical activity levels have dropped drastically since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. But members of the UB community can counter those findings by joining the sixth annual Step Challenge sponsored by the School of Public Health and Health Professions.

The challenge runs from April 1-30, with registration beginning March 24. It’s free, open to the greater UB community and beyond, and a great way to boost your physical and emotional health now that spring has arrived.

Participants in the Step Challenge will connect their fitness trackers to the challenge app to log their step counts, and can also participate on teams. The cumulative total from all steppers will advance the challenge through an interactive map of the states and countries where UB alumni live. All participants, regardless of the number of steps they take, can qualify to win different participation prizes each week and at the end of the challenge. This year, prizes include Theraguns, Fitbits, Bose sport headsets and more.

Ultimately, the Step Challenge aims to motivate participants to walk more and better all aspects of their health. Numerous studies over the years, including those from SPHHP’s Women’s Health Initiative, have revealed that regular exercise, including walking, produces positive effects on many aspects of health. Exercise provides a better functioning immune system, better mental health and increased cardiovascular capacity. Walking for as little as half an hour a day can increase the body’s immune cells and reduce upper respiratory tract infections like the flu.

“If you take part in the Step Challenge,” says SPHHP Dean Jean Wactawski-Wende, “I know you’ll feel better.”

SPHHP runs the Step Challenge as part of National Public Health Week, April 5 to 11. The school will offer a number of events that week focusing on the importance of public health education and careers.

Those with questions about the SPHHP Step Challenge should send an email to sphhp-step-challenge@buffalo.edu.