City of Austin

AUSTIN, Texas –  Austin Public Health (APH) is calling on you to get moving any way you can. With the Move Your Way Challenge, APH is encouraging Austinites to find physical activities of any level they enjoy to help prevent chronic disease and improve physical and mental well-being.

“Adding any movement to your daily routine can make a difference to your health outcomes and quality of life,” said Austin-Travis County Health Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes. “Daily physical movement looks different for everyone, from aquatics and sitting exercises, to taking the stairs instead of the elevator or even dancing while you’re cooking, can all lead to living happier, healthier lives.”

Austinites are encouraged to share examples of physical activity on social media by using the hashtag #MoveYourWayChallenge. 

The posts have seen more than 7,500 views on social media so far, with 15 departments and several community organizations across the City of Austin already participated in the Move Your Way Challenge since Oct. 1. APH is challenging organizations, visitors, residents, and community leaders to join the awareness campaign by posting to their social media platforms. 

Sample videos below:

• Austin Public Health
• Austin Transportation & Public Works
• Austin Economic Development
• Austin Water
• Austin Energy
• Austin Public Library
• Austin-Travis County EMS
• Austin Police
• Austin 3-1-1
• Austin Animal Services
• Austin Parks and Recreation
• Austin Financial Services
• Austin Watershed Protection
• Austin Homeland Security & Emergency Management
• Austin Climate Action & Resilience

“Health equity starts with making movement feel possible and welcoming for everyone,” said Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes, Health Committee Chair. “When we create spaces and challenges that invite people to move in ways that reflect their culture, their community, and their joy, we build a healthier Austin together.”

Adding regular physical activity to your daily schedule can give you immediate rewards, such as:

• Lifting your mood;
• Helping you sleep better; and
• Improving your focus. 

Over time, your increased movement will pay off by:

• Improving your mental health;
• Helping you manage your weight;
• Strengthening your bones and muscles; and
• Decreasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and hypertension.

More information on how you can get involved in the Move Your Way® Challenge as well as resources for active living: here.   

Move Your Way® and the Move Your Way logo are registered service marks of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Used with permission. Participation by Austin Public Health does not imply endorsement by HHS/ODPHP.