American Legion Family members can complete the physical activity challenge without getting on a bike, putting on running shoes or swimming a lap. Here are some other ways to meet the goal.
The American Legion’s USA 250 Challenge was modeled after the successful 100 Miles for Hope. Unlike 100 Miles for Hope, which lasted for 100 days, the challenge concludes July 4, 2026, so there is plenty of time and options to hit the goal for fitness activities. The challenge offers three categories in all — mental wellness, community service and fitness activity.
Participants may pursue their goals for the challenge categories individually or as part of a team. (Learn more and sign up here.) In addition to celebrating America, proceeds from the $30 registration fee and all donations go to the Legion’s Veterans & Children Foundation, which supports disabled veterans and military families in need.
Here are 10 unique fitness activity ideas to celebrate America with the USA 250 Challenge:
1. Combine activities: The challenge is very flexible so participants can choose to cover their 250 miles or hours any way they choose. For those who enjoy multiple activities, they could do a combination of 250 miles or hours cycling, walking, hiking, running, swimming or other ways.
2. Form a team: This is not just a solo challenge. A post, unit and/or squadron could combine forces. For example, an American Legion Family team of 25 people could do an average of 10 miles together (five 2-mile walks, for example). Everyone on the team would get credit for completing the challenge.
3. Create a community event: Across the nation, American Legion posts created 5K run-walks, 2.2-mile hikes and similar activities to promote Be the One. This concept can also be applied to the USA 250 Challenge. In fact, such an event offers multiple benefits beyond fitness: they can engage the community in these initiatives, support the mission to promote Be the One and help participants achieve their challenge goal. Wins all around.
4. Row, row, row your machine: For those who refer upper body work to cardio, a rowing machine could be your solution. Knock off 250 hours or sessions to achieve the goal, or combine the rowing with other activities and/or join a team effort to hit the goal.
5. Play pickleball: The sport is growing in popularity because it is an easy way to exercise, have fun and socialize. Get a group together to play singles or doubles while also pursuing your USA 250 Challenge goals.
6. Dance the hours away: Country-western, square, ballroom, swing, belly or any kind of dance works to achieve this category.
7. Water aerobics: This low-impact exercise reduces stress on joints and muscles, improves cardiovascular health, strengthens the heart, increases blood flow, builds muscle and can aid in weight loss. You can go solo, or get a group together, to hit the 250 hours or sessions to complete the challenge.
8. Tai chi, chair yoga or stretching: All movement is good. And for those who are physically unable to complete other activities, there are other options like tai chi, yoga and simply stretching. One session per day will improve your health and complete the challenge.
9. Ride a mule: Among the most creative ways to hit the goal for 100 Miles for Hope was a Legionnaire from Arizona who rode her mule, Bella. Those who have horses could also use these rides in their quest to hit 250 hours or miles. Giddyup!
10. Walk your dog: We know Fido has to go outside throughout the day. Use this as an opportunity to get in some exercise on longer walks, log those miles or hours and achieve the goal.
If your post, unit and/or squadron, is putting together an event for the challenge, don’t forget to invite local media to demonstrate how you are honoring America in its 250th year.
Resources:
• Need help tracking your miles or hours? Check out this handy how-to video tutorial.
• For ideas on the mental wellness challenge category, please see this previous article.
• Here are some suggestions on how to achieve the community service category.
• How are you completing the challenge category or categories? Visit our Legiontown website to share your story.
- USA250 Challenge