Challenge FAQ
Chilly Yeti Challenge 2026: What's Changed?
Technology & Registration Changes
What happened to RaceMenu/Runzy?
Our previous technology provider is no longer supporting challenge platforms. While this was unexpected, we've partnered with Challenge Hound - a trusted leader in virtual fitness challenges since 2013 - to keep the Chilly Yeti Challenge alive and better than ever!
Why should I trust Challenge Hound?
Challenge Hound has been around since 2013 with a proven track record of stable technology and responsive customer service. They power virtual challenges for communities worldwide and offer seamless syncing with Apple Health, Health Connect, Garmin, Fitbit, Map My Fitness, and Strava. Learn more about Challenge Hound | See compatible apps
You track minutes for running and walking using the Challenge Hound technology.
How do I register for 2026?
Registration works differently this year:
Can I change my challenge level during January like I could before?
Not as easily. You'll commit to one level at registration. If you absolutely need to drop to a shorter challenge during the month, you must contact us at [email protected] - we can't guarantee we'll be able to accommodate all requests, so choose your level carefully!
What's new about the challenge levels?
We've added a new Ultra level at 8 miles per day for those seeking an extra challenge! The Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels remain the same (1, 3, and 5 miles per day respectively).
Team Challenge Changes
How does team registration work now?
The process has changed:
Do I have to pay extra for the team challenge?
No! Team participation is free - you just need to be registered for an individual challenge first.
Can team members be at different challenge levels?
Yes! Team members can choose different levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Ultra) based on their individual goals.
What's the minimum/maximum team size?
Minimum of 2 members, no maximum size.
Merchandise Changes
How do I order merchandise?
Merchandise is now sold directly through our Challenge Northwest Store. You can make individual or group purchases through January 20, 2026
Is shipping included?
Yes! Shipping is included in all merchandise prices.
Can I still get my name on the back of the hoodie/shirt as a Winter Warrior?
Yes! Complete at least one mile every day in January to earn Winter Warrior status and get your name printed on the back of our commemorative gear.
What about the limited edition hoodies?
We're still offering limited edition hoodies (only 25 available), but the Winter Warrior list will NOT be printed on these. If you want a hoodie with your name on it, purchase the regular commemorative hoodie.
The Challenge Itself
Has the spirit of the challenge changed?
Absolutely not! The core mission remains the same: get outside every day in January for at least one mile per day walking, hiking, or running. It's still about starting your New Year on the right foot and building healthy habits that last.
Does the Winter Warrior requirement stay the same?
No, because Challenge Hound's technology doesn't differentiate indoor vs. outdoor at this time, we will consider all indoor and outdoor mileage towards the Winter Warrior status. We'll work with Challenge Hound for 2027 to add that requirement back in, but for now, this is it. Remember, the spirit of the challenge is to go OUTSIDE!
Are the challenge dates the same?
Yes! The Chilly Yeti Challenge runs January 1-31, 2026.
Charity & Fundraising
Does the challenge still support KidVantage?
Yes! 100% of the profits from all merchandise sales (medals, shirts, hoodies) go directly to KidVantage (formerly Eastside Baby Corner).
Technical Questions
What apps does Challenge Hound sync with?
Challenge Hound syncs seamlessly with:
Will tracking be easier or harder?
Most participants find Challenge Hound's interface very user-friendly. The platform is designed for easy syncing with popular fitness apps, so if you already track your activities with Garmin, Strava, Apple Health, etc., your data should flow automatically.
What if I have technical issues?
Contact Challenge Hound's customer service directly by selecting Help Center from their menu (they're known for being very responsive), or reach out to us at [email protected] and we'll help you get sorted.
Communication & Community
Where can I find updates and connect with other participants?
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! We'll post updates, raffle announcements, and community highlights throughout the challenge. Use #ChillyYetiChallenge to share your journey. Plus, there is a message board directly on Challenge Hound.
Who do I contact with questions?
A WORD ABOUT SAFETY
We hope this challenge inspires you to run or walk more than you usually do in January, go outside for your exercise on days you normally stay inside, or workout at times of the day you typically avoid. We also enjoy watching the competitive part of the challenge and watching all the miles pile up. However, please don't use the Challenge as an excuse to make unsafe choices. If there is a choice between safety and keeping your streak alive, please choose safety. We want all our Warriors to stay happy and healthy in 2025!
Technology & Registration Changes
What happened to RaceMenu/Runzy?
Our previous technology provider is no longer supporting challenge platforms. While this was unexpected, we've partnered with Challenge Hound - a trusted leader in virtual fitness challenges since 2013 - to keep the Chilly Yeti Challenge alive and better than ever!
Why should I trust Challenge Hound?
Challenge Hound has been around since 2013 with a proven track record of stable technology and responsive customer service. They power virtual challenges for communities worldwide and offer seamless syncing with Apple Health, Health Connect, Garmin, Fitbit, Map My Fitness, and Strava. Learn more about Challenge Hound | See compatible apps
You track minutes for running and walking using the Challenge Hound technology.
- Website: challengehound.com
- iPhone users: Download the app
- Android: Download the app
How do I register for 2026?
Registration works differently this year:
- Create your own Challenge Hound account (each participant needs their own account)
- Choose ONE challenge level to commit to: Bronze (1 mile/day), Silver (3 miles/day), Gold (5 miles/day), or Ultra (8 miles/day - NEW!)
- If you want to join a team, your captain will need to email [email protected] with the team name and member list
- Click here to register.
Can I change my challenge level during January like I could before?
Not as easily. You'll commit to one level at registration. If you absolutely need to drop to a shorter challenge during the month, you must contact us at [email protected] - we can't guarantee we'll be able to accommodate all requests, so choose your level carefully!
What's new about the challenge levels?
We've added a new Ultra level at 8 miles per day for those seeking an extra challenge! The Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels remain the same (1, 3, and 5 miles per day respectively).
Team Challenge Changes
How does team registration work now?
The process has changed:
- First: Each team member must register individually for their chosen challenge level
- Then: Team captains email [email protected] with:
- Team name
- List of team members (who must already be registered individually)
- Starting December 15: Captains receive links to join the team challenge (no additional cost)
Do I have to pay extra for the team challenge?
No! Team participation is free - you just need to be registered for an individual challenge first.
Can team members be at different challenge levels?
Yes! Team members can choose different levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Ultra) based on their individual goals.
What's the minimum/maximum team size?
Minimum of 2 members, no maximum size.
Merchandise Changes
How do I order merchandise?
Merchandise is now sold directly through our Challenge Northwest Store. You can make individual or group purchases through January 20, 2026
Is shipping included?
Yes! Shipping is included in all merchandise prices.
Can I still get my name on the back of the hoodie/shirt as a Winter Warrior?
Yes! Complete at least one mile every day in January to earn Winter Warrior status and get your name printed on the back of our commemorative gear.
What about the limited edition hoodies?
We're still offering limited edition hoodies (only 25 available), but the Winter Warrior list will NOT be printed on these. If you want a hoodie with your name on it, purchase the regular commemorative hoodie.
The Challenge Itself
Has the spirit of the challenge changed?
Absolutely not! The core mission remains the same: get outside every day in January for at least one mile per day walking, hiking, or running. It's still about starting your New Year on the right foot and building healthy habits that last.
Does the Winter Warrior requirement stay the same?
No, because Challenge Hound's technology doesn't differentiate indoor vs. outdoor at this time, we will consider all indoor and outdoor mileage towards the Winter Warrior status. We'll work with Challenge Hound for 2027 to add that requirement back in, but for now, this is it. Remember, the spirit of the challenge is to go OUTSIDE!
Are the challenge dates the same?
Yes! The Chilly Yeti Challenge runs January 1-31, 2026.
Charity & Fundraising
Does the challenge still support KidVantage?
Yes! 100% of the profits from all merchandise sales (medals, shirts, hoodies) go directly to KidVantage (formerly Eastside Baby Corner).
Technical Questions
What apps does Challenge Hound sync with?
Challenge Hound syncs seamlessly with:
- Apple Health
- Health Connect
- Garmin
- Fitbit
- Map My Fitness
- Strava
Will tracking be easier or harder?
Most participants find Challenge Hound's interface very user-friendly. The platform is designed for easy syncing with popular fitness apps, so if you already track your activities with Garmin, Strava, Apple Health, etc., your data should flow automatically.
What if I have technical issues?
Contact Challenge Hound's customer service directly by selecting Help Center from their menu (they're known for being very responsive), or reach out to us at [email protected] and we'll help you get sorted.
Communication & Community
Where can I find updates and connect with other participants?
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram! We'll post updates, raffle announcements, and community highlights throughout the challenge. Use #ChillyYetiChallenge to share your journey. Plus, there is a message board directly on Challenge Hound.
Who do I contact with questions?
- Challenge questions or team registration: [email protected]
- Technical/platform issues: Challenge Hound customer service
- General updates: Follow us on Facebook and Instagram
- There is a message board directly on Challenge Hound in each challenge.
A WORD ABOUT SAFETY
We hope this challenge inspires you to run or walk more than you usually do in January, go outside for your exercise on days you normally stay inside, or workout at times of the day you typically avoid. We also enjoy watching the competitive part of the challenge and watching all the miles pile up. However, please don't use the Challenge as an excuse to make unsafe choices. If there is a choice between safety and keeping your streak alive, please choose safety. We want all our Warriors to stay happy and healthy in 2025!