Moai is a term from Okinawa Japan which roughly means "meeting for a common purpose." It originated as a way for a village to support other village members financially, a way to pool money locally to take care of an emergency or help someone purchase a parcel of land. Today the idea has expanded to become more of a social support network, a ritualized vehicle for companionship outside the family support system.

"Mo Eye"

Teams made up of people who live or work in the Blue Zones Communities™ who achieve the highest time or steps/distance.

Yes. People can join or start a team on any day throughout the 10 weeks. The ideal sized group is five. If your group is so popular it gets larger than 9, consider dividing up into two teams. Your team may be asked to include an additional team member who is looking to join a team and meet new people. If new members join your team, have them register at http://www.bluezonesproject.com and let your Neighborhood Coordinator know.

Kids are welcome to walk with teams as long as they are with a parent or guardian. This program focuses on adults so the adults will be the ones who register.

Employers in the Blue Zones Communities can start a team. We'll give you a team roster sheet which you can take back to the office to sign people up and get started. Worksites can also work toward becoming designated Blue Zones Worksites™.

Absolutely. You may want to be part of a Moai at work, home and/or school.

You can track the appropriate minutes of activity and submit them to your team leader to record.