Volkssporting is a non-competitive fitness activity open to people of all ages and abilities. AVA sanctions walks, bikes, swims, and ski events across the United States. Events follow marked trails and can be completed at your own pace.

No — most AVA events are open to the public. However, to register for events online, earn IVV credits, or manage a club, you will need a free My.AVA account.

The IVV (Internationaler Volkssportverband) is the international federation of popular sports, headquartered in Germany. AVA is the official U.S. member organization. Participating in sanctioned events earns IVV credits recognized worldwide.

The OSB is AVA's electronic event registration system. Instead of signing a paper start card, you check in digitally using your My.AVA account. The event host sets up an OSB and participants register online before or at the event.

Traditional (TRAD) events are held on specific dates, often one or two days. Year-Round Events (YRE) are available any time within their sanction period — you go at your own convenience. Seasonal Events (SE) are available during a defined season, such as summer or fall.

It depends on the event. OSB events require registration through your My.AVA account. Traditional events may allow walk-up registration with a paper card. Check the event details for specifics.

Use the "Find a Club" section on this page to search by name, city, or state. You can also visit ava.org for a full club directory with contact information.

Contact your club's current president or secretary. Club officers are assigned by the club and entered into the system by AVA HQ or a Regional Director.

Contact AVA National Headquarters at hq@ava.org. New club formation requires a minimum number of founding members and follows the chartering process outlined in the AVA Policy Manual.

Special Programs are achievement challenges sponsored by AVA clubs or national AVA. They typically require completing a certain number of events, distances, or specific event types to earn an award or recognition.

Most Special Programs require you to purchase or obtain a program book, then get it stamped at qualifying events. Details vary by program — check the Special Programs section of this page for currently active programs.

Program books can often be obtained at events, from sponsoring clubs, or through the AVA Store at store.ava.org.

Click "Create a Free Account" on this page or the Sign In page. You will need a valid email address. After registering, you will be asked to complete a digital waiver before accessing OSB features.

You can reset your password using the forgot password link on the Sign In page. Enter your email address and we'll send you a reset link. The link expires after 60 minutes.

Log in to your account and go to your Profile page. You can update your name, email address, and other personal details there.