Step Into Wellness Together:
Mindful Steps, Meaningful Connections – This is Walktober
October 1 – October 31
Registration starts on Monday, September 15.
Watch the 1-minute preview video to learn more.
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After the stellar success of our Star Trak Challenge, we’re keeping the momentum going with the return of Walktober—a 31-day journey of movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection.
This October, take a step back from the daily grind and a step forward into wellness. Whether you're walking solo or syncing strides with your team, Walktober is your invitation to recharge, reconnect, and recommit to your health—one step at a time.
How It Works
Record steps a day (using a tracker or logging physical activity minutes) to earn 1 leaf each day, when you log 6000+ steps, for the 31-day program.
The program goal is 20 leaves during the 31-day challenge.
• 6000-7999 steps = 3 points (red leaf)
• 8000-9999 steps = 4 points (orange leaf)
• 10,000+ steps = 5 points (gold leaf).
NOTE: You don’t have to wear a tracking device to record steps. Enter exercise minutes, then Walktober converts your minutes to steps (100+ activities to choose from).
Besides tracking steps and earning leaves, Walktober features include...
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Let’s make this month a celebration of clarity, camaraderie, and conscious movement.
Join the challenge and walk your way to wellness—mind, body, and soul!
Mark Your Calendar
★ Registration Opens: September 15, 2025
★ Logging Starts: October 1, 2025
★ Registration and team formation ends: October 8, 2025
★ Challenge Dates: October 1 – October 31
About
What is Walktober?
It’s a fun and inspiring way to take advantage of autumn’s cool temperatures and spectacular views as you step out and step up to better health. You’ll be taken on a virtual color tour through some of the world’s most vibrant, breathtaking landscapes — while boosting energy, improving mood, and making walking a priority… during the fall and beyond.
How does it work?
Your goal is to collect 20 leaves – 1 leaf each day, when you log 6000+ steps, for the 31-day program. You can use a tracking device, enter manually, or add exercise minutes that convert automatically for non-step activities such as cycling and swimming.
What is the goal?
60 points for the 4-week program. Aim for 15 or more points each week.
• 6000-7999 steps = 3 points (red star)
• 8000-9999 steps = 4 points (yellow star)
• 10,000+ steps = 5 points (blue star).
NOTE: You don’t have to wear a tracking device to record steps. Enter exercise minutes, then Star Trak converts your minutes to steps (100+ activities to choose from).
How does team participation work?
Team participation is optional. You have until Wednesday, October 8, to form a team of 3-6 members. The team competition will end Friday, October 31, so be sure to complete logging by Sunday, November 2, to have your activity count toward your team's score.
Who can participate?
All DC Government employees, including household members ages 18+.
Whether you’re just starting out or exercise has been part of your daily routine for a while, Walktober gives you simple, motivating tools to track progress, providing instant feedback from your favorite tracking device or app.
Mobile App
Employees may participate online by computer or cell phone. The Walktober app automatically syncs with your online account. You can download the app from Google Play Store or App Store.
Make sure to log in using your DC Government work email.
Challenge Incentives
Join the challenge and track your progress for a chance to win rewards.
Stay committed, stay engaged, and you could be one of our lucky winners!
EARLY BIRD WINNERS
★ First 20 Individuals to sign up within the first week
Each will receive a $25 Gift card
★ First 5 teams official in first week
Each member of the team will receive a $25 Gift card
COMMUNITY WALL ENGAGEMENT WINNERS
★ 10 individuals with the MOST POSTS on the Community Wall Engagement
Each will receive a $25 Gift card
INDIVIDUAL WALKTOBER WINNERS
★ 50 random individuals who MEET ALL the below criteria:
1. Meet Program Goal
2. Complete the Program Evaluation
Each will receive a $25 gift card
TOP-RANKED TEAM WALKTOBER WINNERS
★★★ First Place: Each member of the team will receive a $75 Gift card
★★ Second Place: Each member of the team will receive a $50 Gift card
★ Third Place: Each member of the team will receive a $25 Gift card
Why Join Walktober?
• Boost Mental Wellbeing: Daily movement helps reduce stress and elevate mood
• Strengthen Social Bonds: Walk and connect with colleagues, friends, or family
• Build Healthy Habits: Create a sustainable routine that supports long-term wellness
• Enjoy Mindful Moments: Step outside, breathe deeply, and reset your day
• Feel the Progress: Track your steps and celebrate your achievements
Join the Walktober Challenge—Wellness That Works, One Step at a Time!
Enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle, connect with other participants,
and win amazing rewards. Step out and step up to better health.
