Challenge · 2026
100 step jacks: Can You Keep Your Rhythm?
Today’s RB100 challenge is 100 step jacks: step one foot sideways while raising your arms, then return to the start. Alternate sides for five sets of 20. Keep the movement controlled rather than racing, and scale the step width, arm height or position to suit your ability.
By Richard Branson · · Updated
The challenge: Can you complete 100 step jacks?
For 9 March 2026, your RB100 daily challenge is five sets of 20 alternating step jacks. There is no jumping and no equipment to organise: just a sideways step paired with an arm raise.
The target is consistent movement from the first rep to the last. Each step out and return counts as one rep, not two. Alternate right and left throughout, giving you 10 reps per side in every set.
How to do it: What are the exact steps?
- Clear enough space to step sideways and raise your arms without hitting furniture. Check that the floor and your footwear provide reliable grip.
- Warm up with 30 seconds of easy marching, followed by six gentle side steps each way. These do not count towards the challenge.
- Stand with feet roughly hip-width apart, knees relaxed and arms by your sides.
- Step your right foot sideways while sweeping both arms out and up to a comfortable height. Bring the right foot back to the starting position as your arms lower. Count one rep.
- Repeat with the left foot for rep two. Continue alternating until you reach 20 reps.
- Rest for 20–40 seconds, or longer until you feel ready to move with control. Repeat for five sets in total: 100 reps, including 50 on each side.
- Finish by recording your completed reps, chosen variation and any additional rests. Do not rush the final set to improve your time.
Scale it: How can you make the movement manageable?
Make the sideways step smaller and keep your arm raises below shoulder height if that feels more comfortable. Split the total into 10 sets of 10 if coordination or breathing becomes difficult to manage.
For a seated version, sit on a stable chair with both feet on the floor. Alternate tapping one foot out to the side and back while raising and lowering your arms within a comfortable range. Each out-and-back tap remains one rep. If 100 controlled reps is too much today, stop at a manageable total and record it honestly.
Coaching tips: How do you keep every rep controlled?
Keep your chest facing forwards and place each foot quietly rather than stamping. Let the knee follow the direction of the toes, and avoid stepping so wide that you have to lurch back. Breathe continuously; keep your arm height low enough to avoid shrugging or leaning backwards.
Pause if you repeatedly lose the sequence or start catching your feet. Stop the session for pain, dizziness, chest discomfort or unusual breathlessness. If a medical condition affects your balance or exercise tolerance, have a clinician review whether this challenge and its adaptations are appropriate for you.