The Becton Step Competition is underway! This is a competition where contestants participate in an energetic form of footwork, recording how many steps they take. Becton is currently hosting the challenge from Jan. 1-Jan. 31 with the new addition of three other participating districts alongside Becton: Maywood, East Rutherford, and Carlstadt!
How does it work? Participants in this competition use an app called MoveSpring. Participants must download the app and sync it with their mobile health apps or fitness devices (Apple Watch, Fitbit, etc.) Once synced up, the app will keep track of participant steps, which are then calculated into an average for each district/team.
Coordinator of the step challenge, BRHS Administrative Assistant and Confidential Secretary, Sharon Skeahan, shares with excitement, “This is the first time we are collaborating with other districts. It is very important to have so many schools participating in such a competition because it is a great and effective way to collaborate and come together with our community in ways other than education. It is also a great way to promote positive health and well-being to as many teachers and support staff members as possible!”
Becton math teacher, Mr. Joseph Malyack, who is in the Becton lead, gives his insight, “The extra participants brought on from the neighboring districts has brought even more competitive spirit to the challenge. We are competing as one united team which has brought a sense of camaraderie and positivity to the entire staff. We are all rooting for one another and putting in our best effort to show what Becton is capable of.”
Mr. David Dorsey, a Becton participant in the challenge, also contributes a few words, “The step challenge is a terrific opportunity to start off the year with a healthy intent. My hope is that Becton can pull off the win, but at the very least, we’re getting a little healthier.”
Last year in May, during Becton’s first step challenge, Mr. Malyack kicked the competition off by setting a positive tone, being in the lead for almost the entire challenge and winning overall. Speaking on his previous win, he states, “Last year’s step challenge was one of the most extreme physical tasks many of us took on at Becton. Competing in it and winning gave me an opportunity to discipline my mind and body beyond its limits. So this year I made a vow to give 100% of my extra energy to helping Becton win this challenge. I am giving it my all to be an example to my students of what it looks like to commit to something difficult and go all in on it. Luckily I have some of the most dedicated and talented co-workers and friends in this competition. Plus, when the Wildcats join together we cannot be defeated. We will show them what Becton’s Best can do!”
The overall goal of the challenge is to get people moving in a way that is healthy and achievable for them; however, the winners this year will receive two tickets to see country artists Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown Band at the “Sun Goes Down Tour” at Metlife Stadium this August!
Good luck to all districts in this competitive, yet fun, step challenge!
