American Volkssport Association

The American Volkssport Association (AVA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting noncompetitive sports and fitness activities throughout the United States. Founded on the principles of the international volkssporting movement, which originated in Germany in the 1960s, the AVA aims to encourage lifelong fun, fitness, and friendship for people of all ages and abilities.

Mission and Activities

The AVA's mission is to organize and promote noncompetitive fitness activities such as walking, hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and swimming. These events are designed to be enjoyable and stress-free, allowing participants to engage at their own pace. Historically and scenically significant locations are often chosen for these events to enhance the participant experience.

The AVA administers the largest noncompetitive sports program in the United States, with over 250 chartered sports clubs across the country. Each year, more than 3,000 events are sponsored, attracting a diverse range of participants. Walking is the most popular activity, with routes typically ranging from 5 to 10 kilometers.

Governance and Structure

The organization is run by an all-volunteer board of directors and has a network of ten Regional Directors elected by clubs within their regions. While the AVA is headquartered in Texas, its scope extends nationwide, with active participation from both local and national members.

Achievements and Recognition

The AVA offers an Achievement Awards Program, which encourages participants to track their progress and earn recognition for their accomplishments. Awards include patches, pins, and certificates for completing events and reaching milestones in distance walked.

History and Impact

The AVA's inaugural event in the U.S. took place in 1976, following the establishment of the international volkssporting movement in Europe in the mid-1960s. Over the years, the organization has grown significantly, attracting nearly 400,000 participants over a two-year period. Volkssporting has been recognized for its health benefits, particularly walking, which is identified by the U.S. Surgeon General as a highly beneficial form of exercise. The social aspect of volkssporting also plays a significant role, with many participants continuing due to the friendships and social connections formed through these events.

Values

The AVA emphasizes values such as health and safety, volunteering, non-competitive inclusivity, adventure, camaraderie, environmental stewardship, transparency, and accountability. These principles guide the organization in its efforts to create a welcoming environment for all participants. The AVA is committed to ensuring that its events are accessible to people of all ages and physical conditions, making it a valuable resource for community fitness and social interaction.