Alabama A&M University’s Department of Health Science, Human Performance & Communicative Disorders is encouraging the campus community to get moving this summer through the AAMU 10-Week Walking Challenge, a new wellness initiative designed to promote physical activity, healthy lifestyles and community engagement.
The challenge kicked off June 3 and continues through Aug. 5, offering participants an opportunity to walk one mile each week while connecting with fellow students, faculty, staff and community members.
The free program is open to all ages and fitness levels and features two walk times every Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Organizers say the schedule was intentionally designed to accommodate a variety of work, class and personal commitments.
“This initiative is an opportunity to support one another, walk a mile together and build healthy habits and community one step at a time,” said Micah McGlathery, visiting professor of human performance. “We are excited to bring our campus and community together through the AAMU 10-Week Walking Challenge.”
The walking challenge is being offered as a pilot program this year and is intended to encourage participants to move, improve and thrive through regular physical activity and social connection.
Upcoming walk locations include:
June 17 — Pond behind Dawson Building and the President’s Office
June 24 — Louis Crews Stadium
July 1 — AAMU’s main entrance on Chase Road. Participants may park near Patton Hall or in the visitor lot beside Patton Hall. The route begins at the main gate and continues through campus.
July 8 — University Fitness and Recreation Center
July 15 — University Fitness and Recreation Center
July 22 — Walking track behind Elmore Gym
July 29 — Elmore Gym
Aug. 5 — University Fitness and Recreation Center
Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. Activity trackers are optional.
“Our goal is to create a culture of wellness that extends beyond this summer,” McGlathery said. “If participants leave feeling healthier, more connected and inspired to keep moving, then we will consider this challenge a success.”
