Washington, Dc — More than 1,500 YMCAs participated in the YMCA of the USA's America on the Move Week with the YMCA in September. Ys across the country motivated 1.3 million people to take 8 billion steps during the week. The campaign, in partnership with the America On the Move Foundation, aims to educate and motivate people to make two small daily changes: add 2,000 steps and take in 100 fewer calories.
Ys hosted a variety of activities as part of the week, including organized walks, educational programs, and family health and well-being events. Ys in Washington promoted fitness at a large walking event led by Gov. Chris Gregoire at the Washington State Fair. In Attleboro, MA, the Y led a walk-ability assessment to gauge the walk-friendliness of its community. Residents of Winter Haven, FL, could log steps through seven days worth of free events from walking to salsa dancing.