10.000 Steps/10.000 Stappen
Country
Belgium
2009-Ongoing
Aimed for
All age groups
Type of partnership
Public
Sectors
Community, Physical Activity & Sports, Public administration
Innovation
Methodological, Social
Aim
The aim of the initiative is to encourage individuals to adopt a healthier lifestyle by walking 10,000 steps per day. This goal promotes physical activity, reduces sedentary behavior, and supports overall well-being. The initiative targets people of all ages and fitness levels, aiming to make daily movement a simple and achievable habit. During the last years there was a specific theme every year:
2021: Integrating step signage into public spaces
2022: Developing walking routes within municipalities
2023: Promoting healthy mobility through the STOP principle (Stappen, Trappen, Openbaar vervoer, Personenwagens)
2024: Organizing local movement activities in collaboration with community organizations
Outcome
Outcome
By the end of the campaign, 256 Flemish cities and municipalities—representing 85% of all local governments—had participated. The initiative led to the creation of numerous walking routes, visible step signage, and hundreds of local movement events. It successfully raised awareness about the importance of daily movement, even among vulnerable groups. Evaluations showed that 89% of Flemings were familiar with the campaign, and many municipalities reported lasting improvements in their public spaces and community engagement around health. Participating cities received official recognition for their efforts, marking a collective step toward a more active and healthier Flanders