On May 24, 2025, Americans across all 50 states laced up their sneakers and rolled out their yoga mats for a unique, around-the-clock virtual fitness event. Organized by the nonprofit initiative We Move to Give, the 24-hour fitness marathon brought together thousands of participants through Zoom, uniting them in a shared mission to promote physical and mental wellness while raising funds for health-related charitable causes.
The event offered a dynamic lineup of live-streamed workout sessions, ranging from calming yoga flows and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to strength training and guided meditation. With programming scheduled every hour on the hour, the marathon invited individuals of all ages and fitness levels to engage in movement from the comfort of their homes. More than just a physical challenge, the event was a celebration of community, resilience, and the power of collective action for good.
Inclusive, Accessible, and Impactful
The format of the fitness marathon was intentionally inclusive. Each session was led by certified fitness professionals who tailored workouts to suit a wide range of participants, from beginners seeking gentle movement to experienced athletes craving a sweat-drenched challenge. “We believe fitness should be accessible to everyone, no matter their background, income, or physical ability,” said We Move to Give spokesperson Kayla Bennett.
This year’s marathon was the most successful yet, drawing an estimated 25,000 participants and raising over $1.2 million for various nonprofit organizations focused on chronic disease prevention, mental health support, and youth wellness programs. Some of the beneficiaries included the American Heart Association, Mental Health America, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
A Virtual Model with Growing Appeal
The popularity of virtual fitness has surged in recent years, a trend initially accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and now firmly established in the health and wellness landscape. This year’s marathon reflects the growing demand for flexible, tech-enabled workout options that eliminate barriers such as commuting, gym memberships, and geographical limitations.
Participants could join as individuals or teams and had the option to sign up for a single session or commit to multiple throughout the day and night. From college students in dorms to parents working out alongside their children, the variety in participation highlighted the event’s universal appeal.
“I joined a HIIT class at 3 a.m. just to say I did it,” said Luis Martinez, a teacher from Albuquerque, New Mexico. “It was crazy, fun, and so uplifting to see hundreds of others doing the same thing at that hour. We were all cheering each other on through the chat.”
Wellness Beyond the Physical
In addition to physical activity, the event placed a strong emphasis on mental well-being. Several sessions were dedicated to breathwork, mindfulness, and guided meditation. Experts in nutrition and stress management also offered mini-workshops throughout the day, reinforcing the marathon’s holistic approach to health.
“We know wellness is about more than just working out,” said event coordinator Jasmine Patel. “This is about building healthy habits, fostering connection, and supporting causes that uplift our communities.”
Many participants shared stories of how the event helped them feel more connected and motivated. “I’ve been in a bit of a rut lately, and this marathon gave me a reason to get moving again,” said Angela Rivers, a mother of three from Dayton, Ohio. “And knowing it was helping charities made it even more meaningful.”
Looking Ahead
Following the success of this year’s event, We Move to Give has announced plans to make the 24-hour fitness marathon an annual fixture, with potential for expanding internationally. Organizers are also exploring hybrid models that incorporate in-person meetups in select cities to complement the virtual format.
As America grapples with rising rates of sedentary lifestyles, chronic illnesses, and mental health challenges, initiatives like this virtual fitness marathon highlight the importance of accessible, community-driven wellness solutions. They also show how digital platforms can be leveraged for large-scale impact without sacrificing human connection.
