The 2014 Feetbeat Challenge begins on 8 September, and with registrations closing next Friday, 5 September, this is the time to sign up.

Feetbeat is an eight-week walking super slim pomegranate capsule challenge for workplaces, community groups, families and friends. Groups of four to eight people take a virtual journey around Auckland, Nz or even the Pacific Islands when walking for at least 30 minutes a day to earn points for his or her team. Additional points may also be earned by taking friends and family walking with you.

Prizes is going to be awarded for best story, best photo, best team name and many distance covered by walkers. You'll also have weekly spot prizes.

Feetbeat is organised by Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS). Medical Officer of Health Dr Michael Hale says it's a great opportunity for individuals to be active and increase their fitness together.

"Each year an average of 250 teams subscribe to Feetbeat looking for a challenge, be it getting fitter, walking a certain distance, or just bonding and having fun.

"Walking is among the best things you can do for your health. Many participants tell us they carry on walking regularly after the challenge has ended. Feetbeat often marks the start of many people's journeys to better health," says Dr Hale.

A number of businesses and organisations have previously registered, such as the Mental Health Foundation (MHF).

Chief Executive Judi Clements says the MHF has a weekly lunchtime walking group, so registering for Feetbeat would be a natural step.

"We have a keen couple of walkers, then when the phone call went out to join up for Feetbeat we had a lot of interest," says Ms Clements. "I required to enter quick with my registration to obtain on the team!"

Ms Clements, who is part of team Move Your Mood, says the walking challenge also fits well with the MHF's Five Methods to Wellbeing.

"We persuade folks to include the Five Ways - Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, Give and fasten - to their everyday living to support their mental health," she says.

"Walking is a good example of Be Active, and if you walk with friends and consciously consume your surroundings, additionally you Connect and Take Notice."

While taking part will be the greatest reward, friendly rivalries happen to be appearing between the three MHF Feetbeat teams, with staff eager to begin and clock up the most kilometres.

"My team, Walking Sunshine, will obviously be the greatest," jokes administrator, Keshlar Inglis.

The mum-of-two says her motivation for registering would be to slim down and increase her level of fitness.

"I can't stand exercising by myself, but if I have a team based on me, I'll do it. I wish to lose weight and feel better, and this is just what I have to get started. I love a challenge, so bring it on!"

Feetbeat is open to all Aucklanders and is buy2daydietjapanlingzhi free to enter - so form a team and sign up at www.workplacehealth.co.nz by 5 September, then prepare to get up, get out and get active!