Steps to Health is the HSE’s annual step challenge that helps staff move more, feel better, and connect with colleagues. It runs for 5 weeks, is team‑based, and involves around 8,000 staff every year.
The challenge is open to staff in the HSE and other health care organisations.
Challenge dates and registration
The 2026 Steps to Health challenge runs from 11 May to 14 June.
Team registration opens on 7 April 2026 and closes at 5pm on 11 May 2026.
Register for the Steps to Health Challenge 2026 in your region
How the challenge works
- To promote the challenge, download the Steps to Health poster (PDF, 665 KB, 1 page).
- Set up a team of 2-10 people.
- Nominate a coordinator to support your team.
- Register your team in your local region.
- Download the Steps to Health Staff Guide (PDF, 1.7 MB, 2 pages)
- Get active each day by stepping or moving with your teammates - every move counts.
- Record your daily steps using your phone or personal device.
- Add up and submit your team’s total weekly steps for the 5 weeks.
- Watch for local competitions in your region.
- Keep walking and staying active after the challenge ends.
If you need support contact your regional coordinator
Tips for staying active
Most people walk between 3,000 and 5,000 steps a day. The challenge encourages you to build on this and work towards 10,000 steps daily. If you already reach 10,000, aim to add even more movement into your day.
If you’re currently less active, it may take time to build up. Short 10‑minute walks throughout the day still count and offer real health benefits.
Sitting at your desk or anywhere else for long periods increases the risk of poor health. Try to take short breaks every hour and fit in a walk or stretch at lunchtime. Every move counts, so reduce long sitting time and replace it with any type of movement. Any activity is better than none.
Convert minutes of activity to steps
If you prefer to track time rather than distance, you can use these simple conversions:
- 10 minutes of moderate‑intensity activity = 1,000 steps
- 10 minutes of vigorous‑intensity activity = 2,000 steps
Find out more about being active for your health and wellbeing - HSE.ie
Every Move Counts National Physical Activity Guidelines - gov.ie
Wheelchair users
Wheelchair users can take part in the Steps to Health challenge. Although the challenge is based on logging steps, there are several ways to convert wheelchair movement into step counts. Activity trackers such as Fitbit, Apple Watch and other personal devices can convert movement to steps.
Track the distance wheeled
You can track the distance you wheel each day using an odometer. These devices attach easily to a wheelchair and can be bought in most cycle or sports equipment stores.
You can then convert distance to steps using: 1 km = 1,250 steps
Find places to be active
Walking routes
Check your workplace for way‑marked routes inside or outside the buildings. They’re an easy way to take active breaks with colleagues.
Get Ireland Active
Get Ireland Active helps you find places in your community to move more and be active. You can explore trails, walks, clubs, facilities and public spaces across the country to support your physical activity journey - getirelandactive.ie