Low levels of physical activity, unhealthy nutrition, and poor mental health are all determinants of several chronic diseases. These behaviors are now considered major public health concerns and require effective behaviour change interventions. Fit Blue is a community-based campaign to increase physical activity and health awareness in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Building physical activity into the day does not require special equipment or a certain location. As participants take part in Fit Blue, they have tools to transition to a more active lifestyle focusing on eating healthier, moving more, and practicing mindfulness.

A smartphone-based application (FitBlueKY) is a four-week walking challenge focused on increasing participant’s participation in regular physical activity, choosing a nutritious diet, and improving health outcomes for Kentucky citizens. As an innovative strategy to improve and increase movement with Powell County residents, the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent partnered with Foothills Clinic and Powell County Health Department to implement a 30-day walking challenge called Wellness Returns Powell County.

Participants downloaded the FitBlue app and joined the local challenge. A private Facebook group was created for challenge participants where updates about the challenge were posted as well as other helpful information on creating a healthy lifestyle. This also provided a way for participants to communicate and hold each other accountable.

Throughput the challenge, participants were encouraged improve health behaviors by making lifestyle choices to increase physical activity and eat nutritious meals. Out of the 50 adults that downloaded the FitBlue app and joined the 30-day challenge, 30 completed the challenge. As a result of this program, participants reported they were more aware of the benefits of regular physical activity, gained the knowledge and skills to be more physically active, and increased their activity levels during the challenge. After the 30 days, participants recorded a total of ­­6,175,248 steps, which is equivalent to about 3,087 miles!

Every participant that completed the challenge received a t-shirt, set of resistance bands, and Fit Blue vinyl sticker. The top three participants were also rewarded with a prize of either a FitBit Versa watch, one month membership at the Stanton Gym, or 5 classes at a local fitness studio.

At the completion of the program, participants shared...

“Even though I didn't reach my goal, it still got me outside and kept me accountable.”

“I am getting around 3,000 additional steps daily by being more aware and motivated by this challenge. I started getting the kids to school earlier so I can walk for 15 minutes at the park before work. I have been packing a healthier lunch and walking at the park on my lunch break. I feel better having a routine and look forward to my time to work on me.”

“I really enjoyed doing this challenge, because I love to walk outdoors. I was able to go way over my original goal of 10,000 steps a day, because each update pushed me to do better when I saw how many were ahead of me. I learned that my body feels much better when making sure I get several steps in each day.”