Saudi Sports for All Federation invites the nation to Step Together eight more times this year, with the launch of a unique series of fitness challenges

 The Saudi Sports for All Federation has launched the first of an eight-event Step Together series to take place this year, as it continues to encourage people across the Kingdom to work towards a healthier and happier Saudi Arabia.

The popular Step Together program has already enjoyed four iterations since it was first introduced last year and will continue to help improving the fitness of the nation with its new eight-part series.

Each Step Together event between now and the end of the year will run between five and 15 days and will have a distinct identity related to the occasion it is based around. Each event will set a running or walking challenge, which can be undertaken at home or in public, provided participants follow health and safety guidelines.

As an incentive, participants who complete each challenge will receive a medal unique to that particular event along with a certificate of completion. When combined, the design of the medals form a circle with the outline of Saudi Arabia at the center – a representation of the hard work the participant has done to help boost the health of the nation.

Trophies will also be on offer, as well as raffle prizes including cash, electronics, and other items. Some prizes will be awarded to the events’ top performers, with rankings available to view on the event platform, as well as social media.

The first event will take place on either April 12 or April 13 - the start of Ramadan. It will last for 20 days, and the challenge is simply to get moving. There is no limit in this first challenge; however, participants are encouraged to walk more than required 20km to build a healthy habit.

Ramadan is largely about discipline, specifically when it comes to fasting. So first challenge asks participants to use the Holy Month to be disciplined with sport, and start a routine that will last well beyond Step Together’s bounds.

The series will be held under the banner of Start Now, the SFA’s national health awareness campaign that encourages people of all ages, genders, backgrounds and abilities to be more active and help Saudi Arabia shine around the world as a beacon of health, fitness and wellbeing.

Start Now campaign is designed to support people of every demographic take the next step in their fitness journeys, using the SFA App to create and join challenges and events, form Community Sports Groups, set goals, and track their progress.

Whether you’re a new mother, grandparent, serious athlete or absolute beginner, the campaign highlights how the app and SFA initiatives can make a difference, with a series of videos showcasing relatable, every-day people as they strive for more active lifestyles.

Both Step Together and Start Now are part of the wider SFA mission to boost sporting participation across the country. Supported by the Ministry of Sport and Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee, the Federation is mandated by Vision 2030’s Quality of Life program to increase physical activity to 40% by 2030.

In 2020 more than 220,000 people took part in SFA initiatives such as Step Together, as well as Move to Game, the National Cricket League, the Women’s Football League on the community level, Baytak Nadeek campaign, and more.