Every September, thousands of Australians join STEPtember¹  – a simple 30-day challenge that encourages people to move more and walk every day. It’s built around the idea of hitting a daily goal (like 10,000 steps or an equivalent amount of activity), but the real power lies not just in the numbers – it’s in feeling better physically² and mentally³ because of it.

Why walking works

Walking is one of the most accessible and effective forms of exercise we have. You don’t need fancy gear, a gym membership, or special skills – just comfortable shoes and a little motivation. Research shows that even moderate physical activity like brisk walking can have real health benefits³ that matter:

According to Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines, adults should accumulate 150 to 300 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity (like brisk walking) each week⁸. This makes walking an ideal way to meet these recommendations – and STEPtember helps turn that target into achievable daily movement.

More than steps – it’s about wellbeing

Unlike intense fitness programs that can feel intimidating, walking is inclusive and manageable for people at all fitness levels. That means:

Beyond physical benefits, walking also significantly supports mental wellbeing. Research from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and enhance cognitive performance. Small, consistent amounts of movement can build into habits that stick long after September is over.

Walk with purpose

STEPtember also gives people a chance to support meaningful causes. Many participants choose to fundraise for organisations supporting Australians living with disabilities, adding another layer of motivation – your daily steps can make a difference in someone else’s life too. But even if you’re just walking for your own health and wellbeing, that’s a great reason to start. At the heart of STEPtember is its charitable mission. In Australia, funds raised through STEPtember support individuals living with cerebral palsy and other disabilities through organisations such as Cerebral Palsy Alliance.

Cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability in childhood in Australia⁷. Cerebral palsy results from changes to the developing brain and primarily affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. Although it is a lifelong condition, early intervention, therapy, assistive technology, and research can greatly enhance quality of life. The impact of research has contributed to a 40% reduction in the rate of cerebral palsy in Australia, as well as a decrease in severity⁷.

Funds raised through STEPtember help support⁷:

For participants, this connection to impact is powerful. Each step taken contributes not only to personal health but also to tangible support for Australians living with disability. The challenge transforms everyday movement into meaningful action.

Take the First Step

Movement doesn’t have to be complicated to be powerful. Walking – something most of us can do – is one of the most evidence-based ways to boost your physical and mental health. This September, give yourself a meaningful reason to move more, feel better, and make each step count.

Osteoporosis is when the structure of bone is compromised, making it weaker and less dense, and the bone has an increased risk of breaking (1). You may have heard of this condition before, but what does osteoporosis look like practically, and what does low bone density mean?