What is STEPtember?
STEPtember is America On the Move’s national month long celebration promoting the small change approach to active living and healthful eating for healthier lifestyles among individuals, families, communities and society.

How do I join STEPtember as a new member?
To join STEPtember, register between August 17 - September 30 and commit to making small lifestyle changes for a six-week period by selecting a challenge start date. During registration, make sure “Join STEPtember” is checked to become a STEPtember participant and to be entered into the grand prize drawing.

How do I join STEPtember if I’m already an AOM user?
If you are an AOM registered user, log into your account and start a new challenge with a start date between August 17 – September 30. You must finish any current challenge before you can start a new one. Make sure to click on the "Learn About STEPtember" link at the top right and then click “Join Now” on the popup to be considered a STEPtember participant and eligible for the grand prize.

How does the STEPtember program work?
Participants register for a six-week challenge with a start date between August 17 - September 30 and join the promotion through registration or when logged in to their account. Registered users are encouraged to enter steps daily to track your progress and will receive daily tips on nutrition and physical activity. At the end of the challenge, users complete an evaluation and receive a completion certificate. In addition, the YMCA will host a variety of local events at more than 1,400 YMCA branches on September 20 - 27 so people can join the movement and experience the benefits of small steps first-hand.

Why should I register?
STEPtember is an awareness campaign introducing participants to AOM’s free online resources to help achieve positive, lasting healthy lifestyle changes. Participants can get involved in many local STEPtember events using the online event finder or create an event for their own community. Refer to the Planning Guide and submit the information requested under "Add Event." STEPtember participants are eligible for a grand prize valued at $2,500.

What is the STEPtember event grand prize?
This year the STEPtember grand prize is valued at $2,500. The package includes (a) A $1,000 Gift Card redeemable at a grocery chain. Terms and conditions apply on gift card. (b) A $500 Gift Card redeemable at a sporting goods chain. Terms and conditions apply on gift card. (c),At least three sessions (which shall be through a combination of e-mail and telephone) with a registered dietitian selected by AOMF (each session to be a minimum of 30 minutes, but no more than 10 hours total for all of the sessions combined) with an Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”) of $1000. Odds of winning the Sweepstakes Prize depend on the number of eligible entries received during the Promotion Period. See official rules for more details.

How can I be eligible for the STEPtember grand prize?
To be eligible to win the STEPtember grand prize, register between August 17 - September 30, and make sure the “Join STEPtember” box is checked. For current users, choose a start date between August 17 - September 30, click on the "Learn About STEPtember" link at the top right and then click “Join Now”. Invite your friends and family to register and receive additional grand prize entries--see official rules for more details.

How do I plan a STEPtember event in my community?
Planning a STEPtember event in your community is easy. Go to America On the Move, click on the "Download Tools" link and open the "Planning Guide." This will give you all the information you need. Once you have planned your event, please add it to the AOM website by clicking on the "Add an Event" to submit the event information.

How do I post my STEPtember event so that others can see it?
To post an event for STEPtember, go to the "Add an Event" page and enter the necessary information. Once you are finished, click "Save" and your event will be added to the event finder.

Tell me more about America On the Move Week at the YMCA?
YMCAs across the country will be joining forces for AOM Week at the YMCA, September 20-27, to host a variety of events that will inspire individuals and families to incorporate healthier living activities into their daily routines through "small steps." You can find these local events using our event finder.

Do I need a pedometer to participate?
A pedometer is not needed, but highly encouraged. AOM offers an activity conversion chart to help you calculate your steps, however it is not as accurate as having an actual pedometer. A pedometer is also a convenient way to know how many steps you have taken and how many more you need to achieve your goal. If you are interested in a pedometer, please visit the AOM store.