Frequently asked questions

 

What is The Asthma UK Step Challenge?  

The Asthma UK Step Challenge is our  brand-new event, designed specifically with asthma in mind. We are asking people to pledge how many steps  they  can walk throughout the month of October  to  help us reach our target of 5.4 million – one step for every person with asthma in the UK.

How do I register? 

You can register to take part in The Asthma UK Step Challenge on our website.  

When is The Asthma UK Step  Challenge?  

The challenge starts on 1st  October and you have the entire month of October  to log your steps.  

How do I know how many steps to pledge?

The Asthma UK Step Challenge is all about setting your own personal target. The key is to challenge yourself by aiming to take more steps in October than you normally would. You can do this by aiming to walk a certain distance per week, by walking for a set amount of time per day or by adding in extra activities to your normal routine. Visit here for our top tips on working out how many steps you want to pledge.   

How do I count my steps?  

There are a number of  different ways for you to track your steps. You could use a basic pedometer, or a free app on your smartphone, or you could register with  Strava  or  MapMyFitness.  Find out more here and don’t forget to download our record card to track your progress.

Is there a minimum number of steps  I need to  walk?

No, this is your challenge, your way.  We recognise asthma is challenging enough.  The key is to challenge yourself by aiming to take more steps in October than you normally would. Pledge the number of steps you are comfortable with and if you exceed your target even better!  

Can I take part in a wheelchair?

Absolutely! If you are taking part in a wheelchair we recommend purchasing a bicycle odometer from your local bike shop to measure the distance you travel. As a general rule of thumb, each meter you travel equates to three steps. That means every kilometre you travel equates to 3,000 steps, and every mile will equate to approximately 4,850 steps.

How can I get a t-shirt?

The first 1,000 people to register and raise over £50 will receive an Asthma UK t-shirt, you’ll be the envy of all your friends! We’ll endeavour to send you your t-shirt within ten working days of receiving your first £50 however please note that it make take longer during busy periods.

I want to participate, but I am worried about my asthma. Who can I speak to for advice? 

For independent, confidential advice and support call our asthma nurses Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm on 0300 222 5800 or chat to our nurses on WhatsApp by sending a message to 07378 606728.  For more information on these services please visit www.asthma.org.uk. You can also read our tips on how to look after your asthma while you‘re exercising by visiting our exercise page.

I’m worried about walking outside if it’s cold, just in case it makes my asthma worse.

We recommend always having your reliever inhaler (usually blue) with you. If you have asthma symptoms, stop, take your reliever inhaler and make sure you wait for your symptoms to go before starting again. If it’s cold, wrap a scarf loosely over your nose and mouth to warm the air before it gets to your airways. If it’s really cold and you know that cold air triggers your asthma, it might be best to stick to indoor activities, for example a treadmill, stairs or even your living room by walking on the spot in front of the TV.

Do I have to fundraise online? 

Your online fundraising page is a quick and easy way to get donations from friends without any money changing hands, but you don’t need to fundraise this way. If you would rather fundraise the more traditional way, using the sponsorship forms, that’s absolutely fine. Download your sponsorship form.  

How do I pay in money raised offline?

There are a number of ways you can pay in cash that you’ve collected. Download our guide to paying in offline money.

How do I talk to other people who are taking part?

Share tips, stories and more on our Facebook group. It’s amazing how motivating it is to connect with people taking on the same challenge!