Join Gretchen Rubin for Move 26 in ’26

Each year on the Happier with Gretchen Rubin podcast, Gretchen and her sister, Elizabeth Craft, create a yearly challenge as a fun and manageable way to build a new habit. For 2026, the challenge is Move 26 in ’26. Each day in 2026, move for at least 26 minutes. Walking, stretching, running, yoga, dancing, gardening, cleaning, swimming–all types of movement count.

Research consistently links regular physical activity to better sleep, clearer thinking, reduced anxiety, and—perhaps surprisingly—more energy.

These benefits come from any kind of movement, not just traditional forms of exercise like jogging or cardio. These prompts are designed to help you discover new ways to move, experiment with what works, and have some fun in the process. Join us in making 2026 a year of more movement, more energy, and more happiness.

Get fun ideas and inspiration for moving throughout the year!

Gretchen Rubin will be offering a variety of mini-challenges and teaming up with a mix of partners to help you keep moving all year long. Check this page to learn more about the current mini-challenge and sign up below to receive updates on the many fun things we have planned!

Try the Decluttering Scavenger Hunt

#move26in26

Gretchen Rubin and Clutterbug teamed up on this clutter-clearing checklist to get you moving—and more organized.

Tip of the Month

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Give yourself a gold star for starting

Gretchen often repeats this piece of advice from her father: just put on your running shoes and let the door shut behind you. The goal isn’t to complete a full workout; it’s to take the first step. Decide what “starting” looks like for you, do that, and give yourself a gold star. Very often, once you begin, you keep going—but the win is starting.

Featured Episode

Aims you might consider

Go for a daily 26-minute walk

Do a YouTube exercise class during your lunch hour

Split your movement into shorter bursts across the day (2–6 minutes at a time)

Return to a sport or game that you enjoyed as a child

Aim for 26 miles of running or walking each month

Use the Strategy of Pairing to pair movement with watching TV or listening to a podcast or audiobook

Join the Move 26 in 26 challenge on the Happier app
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Track your movement with the Happier™ app

Can you commit to moving 26 minutes a day in 2026? What about 2-6 minutes? Join the group challenge in the Happier™ app and choose from a variety of tools to monitor your progress. Whether you want to track your total minutes, keep up a streak, or photograph your adventures, you can record your activity in the way that works best for you.

Stay up-to-date on the latest challenges, news, and more.

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Every Friday, Gretchen Rubin shares 5 things that are making her happier, asks readers and listeners questions, and includes exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes material. 

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