SDSU Extension encouraging physical activity with 5th annual Fall into Fitness event

BROOKINGS, S.D. – South Dakota State University Extension is encouraging South Dakotans to get active with its fifth annual Fall into Fitness seasonal activity challenge.

This virtual movement challenge aims to motivate and inspire participants to get outside and active during October. It is free and can be done by individuals or groups anywhere in the state.

Participants will track their minutes of activity daily from Oct. 1 to 31, 2026, and submit their totals after the event ends. Those who finish the challenge will receive a small thank-you gift for participating. Larger prizes will be awarded to top achievers and three randomly drawn participants who submit their total minutes at the end of the challenge.

Challenge participants must be registered to qualify for prizes. To register, visit the SDSU Extension Events page and search “fitness”.

Erin Hallenbeck, SDSU Extension Health and Physical Activity Field Specialist, said fall is one of the best times to start a new physical activity routine and enjoy the outdoors.

“The cooler temperatures, changing leaves and getting back into a routine can make physical activity feel especially enjoyable and refreshing,” Hallenbeck said.

Hallenbeck said all kinds of movement contribute to a healthy lifestyle, not just walking or running. Everyday activities like raking leaves, gardening, cleaning the house, dancing, biking, strength training, or even playing with children or grandchildren all count toward the challenge.

Participants will receive weekly emails to support their progress and will be encouraged to move every day of the month. This year’s event will also include a weekly sleep challenge and sleep health tip to educate participants on and encourage sleep health.

The Centers for Disease Control says getting enough sleep can boost immunity, improve heart health and metabolism, reduce stress, lower the risk of certain chronic conditions and improve attention and memory. Recommendations vary depending on age, with teenagers typically needing between 8 to 10 hours, and adults needing at least 7 hours.

According to the CDC, physical activity supports physical and mental health and recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of moderate to intense physical activity each week. Health benefits include improved brain health, focus, mood and a reduction in major health risks like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.

“We’re excited to highlight the connection between regular physical activity, healthy sleep and overall health and well-being,” Hallenbeck said.

Whitney Keller-Reetz, SDSU Extension Health and Community Field Specialist, added that joining a group or virtual challenge like this one can provide positive social interactions, accountability and push people to work out harder than they would on their own.

For more information, contact Erin Hallenbeck, SDSU Extension Health and Physical Activity Field Specialist; or Whitney Keller-Reetz, SDSU Extension Health and Community Field Specialist.