COLUMBIA, Mo. — University of Missouri Extension invites Missourians to get moving this summer through the statewide 100 Miles, 100 Days challenge, a free program that encourages participants to stay active.
The program challenges Missourians to log 100 miles of physical activity over 100 days—from June 16 through Sept. 24. Participants can choose how they move—walking, biking, swimming, dancing or other activities such as strength training all count, says Candace Rodman, an MU assistant extension professor and executive director of the Missouri Council for Activity and Nutrition (MOCAN).
“Participants can use the program however they’d like,” Rodman says. “You can choose to keep your mileage log private, you can share to the website and compete with others around the state, or contribute miles to your county to compete with other counties.”
The flexible format is designed to meet people where they are, whether they are experienced athletes or just getting started with a more active lifestyle, she says.
Participants receive weekly reminders and motivators that offer ideas for reaching their goals.
David Burton, MU Extension community development specialist and founder of the Engaged Neighbor Program, says the challenge creates natural opportunities for connection.
“Sometimes the best conversations happen while walking around the block, riding bikes on a trail, or taking a stroll through the neighborhood after dinner,” Burton said. “Physical activity can become a pathway to belonging.”
Burton adds that neighbors, families, coworkers and community groups can use the challenge as a reason to gather, encourage one another and build relationships. Organized walks and group activities are already planned in several Missouri communities this summer.
The statewide initiative grew from a much smaller effort launched by Rodman in Randolph County in 2021. She introduced the idea in Moberly as a simple way to encourage residents to get outside and be active during the summer.
Rodman initially hoped for about 100 participants. Instead, more than 400 people signed up in the first year, with families, workplaces and community groups forming teams and logging miles together. The strong response quickly sparked interest in neighboring counties and helped the program expand across the state.
Since then, 100 Miles, 100 Days has continued to grow, with more than 4,000 participants to date. Rodman says the program offers Missourians a simple, inclusive way to build healthier habits while connecting with others.
Register online. There is no cost to participate. Contact your local MU Extension center to find out about related activities in your community.
MU Extension is the link between the University of Missouri’s proven research, knowledge and resources and more than 6 million Missourians. With state and local partners, we deliver real-world solutions to address our state’s grand challenges around agriculture, economic opportunity, educational access and health and well-being. Faculty and staff in 114 counties and the city of St. Louis work to empower people, strengthen communities and develop leaders. True to our land-grant mission, we serve Missouri and deliver Mizzou as we improve lives and opportunities.