Start your day with movement instead of rush and stress – perhaps with a short walk, a bike ride, or a combination of both with public transport – while commuting from home to the university. That’s the idea behind the new challenge Six Months of Movement, through which Palacký University wants to inspire its students and employees to naturally integrate physical activity into their daily lives. The challenge begins on April 1 and runs until the end of September, with registration open until April 30.
The aim of the challenge is to use the daily commute to the university as a natural opportunity for active movement – whether on foot, by bike, scooter, or in combination with a train or public transport. “It’s not about performance or perfection, but about gradual progress. Even a small change in daily habits makes a difference – for ourselves, for public spaces, and for the environment,” says Zuzana Huňková, the university’s sustainable development coordinator from Sustainable University, which organizes the challenge.
From April to September, participants will fill out a short form once a month to evaluate their transport habits. Regularity is key – only those who complete all monthly summaries will be included in the final evaluation and prize draw. “The goal isn’t to collect kilometers, but to become aware of one’s own habits and find realistic ways to include more movement in the day. We designed the challenge to help people stay motivated – also thanks to the fact that they won’t be doing it alone, and through optional monthly mini-challenges,” adds Zuzana Huňková. The initiative goes beyond exercise – the organizers also plan to inspire participants toward a healthier lifestyle in general, for example in the area of nutrition.
The challenge focuses on everyday commuting – from dormitories, student apartments, or nearby towns. It is open to those who commute to Olomouc from greater distances and combine different modes of transport. “Typically, for example, cycling to the station, taking the train to Olomouc, and walking through the city afterward. That’s also the kind of approach we want to support,” Huňková concludes.
The initiative also includes a symbolic motivational element: for every day they drive a car, participants can voluntarily contribute 10 CZK to the UP Endowment Fund. At the end of the challenge, the university will recognize individuals and departments in several categories, such as the greatest personal progress or regular participation. There will also be a raffle for all those who complete the challenge conscientiously.
More information and registration for the challenge