Challenges
The goal of this program is to improve health. Everyone that embarks upon this challenge should be rewarded. We know that improved health is not an easy goal to achieve, so we strive to not only provide you with an additional support network, but also offer fun incentives along the way.
Although we are offering prizes/incentives, it can not be overstated that the ulimate reward is goal achievement and improved health...not a gift certificate.
With that being said, we will issue fun "challenges" each week. Challenges will be based upon individual (step or time spent) walking goals. If you achieve whatever goal it is that you've set, you should a) report your step totals through the website on the American Heart Association's tracker and b) send us an email (wow@cityofevanston.org) that indicates in the subject line "I DID IT!". This will enter you into a raffle for a prize that week.
Prizes will be distributed at the larger group walks and workshops.
Challenges will be expressed each Monday morning.
Week 1 (March 26 - April 1) Challenge:
Set and achieve a goal for the week (number of steps, time spent walking, distance walking, etc.)
Week 2 (April 2 - April 8) Challenge:
Attend either a weekly walk (times can be viewed in the Calendar tab) or this month's group walk on Saturday, April 7 at 9 am at Ingraham Park.
Week 3 (April 9 - April 15) Challenge:
Set and achieve a goal for the week (number of steps, time spent walking, distance walking, etc.).
Week 4 (April 16 - April 22) Challenge:
1. Attend either a weekly walk (times can be viewed in the Calendar tab) or one of the group walks during the Girl Whirl event (Friday April 20 6 PM or Saturday April 21 8 AM at the Downtown Evanston office, 820 Davis).
2. Register on the American Heart Association and log your steps/miles.
Week 5 (April 23 - April 29) Challenge:
1. If you’re a self-reported new walker, walk 1.5 miles in one walk. If you’re a moderate walker, walk 3 miles in one walk. If you’re an advanced walker, walk 4.5 miles in one walk. Use the American Heart Association quiz to find your walking level if you aren’t sure.
2. Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
Week 6 (April 30 - May 6) Challenge:
Increase your weekly goal by 10% (so, for example, if your goal is 8000 steps per day, aim for 8800).
Week 7 (May 7 - May 13) Challenge:
1. Attend the workshop on May 12 from 9-11 AM at the McGaw YMCA.
2. Commit to cutting out one unhealthy food or beverage from your diet (e.g. soda) for the week (or beyond).
Week 8 (May 14 - May 20) Challenge:
1. Increase your weekly goal by 10% (so, for example, if your goal is 8000 steps per day, aim for 8800).
2. Make an effort each day to choose one healthier snack or meal substitute.
Week 9 (May 21 - May 27) Challenge:
1. Attend either a weekly walk (times can be viewed in the Calendar tab) or the group walk on Saturday, May 26 9 AM, location TBD).
2. Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
Week 10 (May 28 - June 3) Challenge:
1. Increase your weekly goal by 10% (so, for example, if your goal is 8000 steps per day, aim for 8800).
2. Eat an extra serving of fruits and vegetables each day.
Week 11 (June 4 - June 9) Challenge:
1. Attend the final event Saturday June 9 at 10 AM.
2. Make a plan for continuing the healthy habits you’ve learned during the program.