The short answer: the best virtual walking challenge for a beginner is one where you pick a small goal, every kind of movement counts, and someone notices when you show up. In Run Across America you choose a season goal as low as 50 km (31 miles), and walks, dog walks, yoga and more than 50 other activities all count toward it. The current season is Holiday Hustle 2026, November 1 through December 31, 2026.
Why most people quit, and how to avoid it
- The goal was someone else's. A fixed 100 miles is a lot for a first season. Pick a goal you could reach on a slow week, and raise it later if you're ahead.
- Only "real" workouts counted. Carrying groceries up the stairs, walking the dog and an hour of gardening are all movement. A challenge that counts them keeps you going on busy days.
- Nobody noticed. People who join with a partner, a family member or coworkers finish far more often. Start a team, even a team of two.
How a Run Across America season works
- Choose a goal: 50, 100, 250 or 500 km, or a custom one. You can change it any time.
- Move however you like and log it in the app, or import it from Apple Health or Strava.
- Watch it add up with badges, streaks and themed bonus challenges along the way.
- Get your reward in the mail at the end of the season: your pick of a steel medal, a super-soft tee or a seasonal item.
Registration is $55 for the season, and you can add a gift to Feeding America that we match dollar for dollar, up to $50.
A simple first-week plan
- Pick the 50 km goal.
- Take a 10-minute walk after one meal each day. That's about 1 km for most people.
- Invite one person to your team.
- Log everything, even the short ones. They count.
Frequently asked questions
What is a virtual walking challenge?
A virtual walking challenge gives you a distance goal to reach over a few weeks, on your own routes and schedule. You log your walks in an app and see your progress add up, often with badges, a team, and a reward at the end.
How far should a beginner aim to walk?
Start with a goal you could reach on a slow week. In Run Across America the smallest season goal is 50 km (31 miles) over a season of about two months, which works out to well under a kilometer a day.
What counts besides walking?
More than 50 activity types count in the Run Across America app, including dog walks, hiking, cycling, swimming, yoga, gardening and treadmill sessions.
Do I need a fitness tracker?
No. You can record a walk with your phone, enter it by hand, or import it from Apple Health or Strava.