The first phase of the project focused on dissemination and preparatory activities to ensure that as many people as possible learn about the benefits of physical activity, the “Billion Steps Challenge,” and other planned project activities. A project Facebook profile was created to regularly share updates, and three differently designed motivational posters were produced, all united by the inspiring slogan “Every step makes you stronger!” The posters were displayed in municipal buildings, schools, libraries, public health offices, polyclinics, social service centers, and other public spaces in the Biržai and Ignalina districts, the city of Šiauliai, and Latvia’s Kurzeme and Latgale regions. Additionally, a motivational animated video clip was prepared, and during August–September, articles introducing the project’s purpose and planned activities were published in regional media by project partners.
The visibility efforts were further strengthened by live events. On August 28, the BISTEPS project presentation in Biržai brought together participants interested in discussing the benefits of physical activity, opportunities for daily movement, and practical exercises that can be easily performed in the workplace. Sharing experiences from Lithuanian and Latvian partners helped explore ways to best motivate different communities. The following day, on August 29, a daily physical activity promotion event in Ignalina helped spread awareness about the project’s goals even more widely. Participants learned how to integrate movement into everyday life, discussed habit formation, common barriers and ways to overcome them, and concluded the event by sharing impressions and new insights.
All of these dissemination and communication efforts are consistently guided by the main goal—the international “Billion Steps Challenge,” which will start soon. For this purpose, online meetings with “Walk15” representatives were held, during which the app’s features were presented, and the next steps, challenge structure, and team formation were discussed. Since the challenge is scheduled to begin on January 10, 2026, the upcoming period will focus on actively attracting participants and sending invitations to schools, communities, youth and senior centers, and other institutions.
At the same time, project partners are actively preparing another important part of the project—the wellness routes that will complement the challenge and bring additional value. Video guides are currently being filmed, audio narratives are being recorded, and articles on healthy living as well as physical and emotional well-being are being prepared. Each municipality will offer two interactive routes adapted to different groups—children, seniors, people with disabilities, and active adults. These routes will encourage people to move more, explore their surroundings, and discover new ways to take care of their health and overall well-being.
