Michelle Obama Is Asking That We ‘Step It Up’

Amy Capetta

When FLOTUS talks, we listen.

With less than 100 days left in the White House, Michelle Obama is urging Americans to lace up and join the Step It Up challenge —­ a two-week challenge (already in progress) organized by Fitbit and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD, that encourages people of all ages and physical fitness levels to take steps toward a more healthy lifestyle.

Mrs. Obama just released a video announcing that participants have already taken billion of steps (more than 23 billion, actually!) since this challenge began on Oct. 13. “That is billion with a B, and I am so proud of all of you,” she states.

The first lady also offers a few of her personal tips on ways she adds extra steps and workouts to her everyday schedule. “Like taking stairs instead of the elevator, hitting the gym whenever possible, doing walking meetings, or even just dancing with some friends.”

The visuals alone are enough to make you want to watch the video; they include shots of President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden running outside the Oval Office — then rehydrating with glasses of water — and Michelle dancing with Jimmy Fallon.

A number of athletes and fitness professionals are on board with the challenge as well, like volleyball player Gabby Reece, ultramarathon runner Dean Karnazes, husband-and-wife distance running duo Ryan and Sara Hall, and celebrity personal trainer Harley Pasternak.

Even singing legend Barbra Streisand has stepped it up.

The challenge ends on Oct. 26. To join #StepItUpUSA or learn more, visit www.stepitupusa.org.

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