---
title: Mobile app and step challenges
description: When the DistantRace app is required and how mobile event links work
order: 15
---

# Mobile app and step challenges

## Step challenges require the app

For **step challenges**, daily steps must reach DistantRace through the **mobile app**. Connecting Apple Health, Google Fit, Health Connect, or a step source is done in the app — not only on the website.

See the [Mobile app](../mobile-app/index.md) section — especially [Step sync setup](../mobile-app/step-sync-setup.md) and [How to set up a step data source](../connections-with-apps/how-to-set-up-a-step-data-source-in-the-distantrace-app.md).

## Opening event links on mobile

When you open a short event link on a phone, DistantRace may show a **mobile landing page** with:

- Links to download the iOS or Android app
- Option to continue on the web
- For step challenges, a note that the app is needed for step sync

## Sports activity challenges

Workout-based challenges do not always require the DistantRace app. You can connect Garmin, Polar, or other apps on the website and sync activities from there.

## Find events in the app

Use the app to scan a QR code or enter a join code. See [Find an event in the app](find-an-event-in-the-app.md).

## Step game and message board

Once registered, open the challenge on the website for **Step game** daily tasks and the full **Messages** feed. The mobile app **Posts** tab also shows message-board activity across your events — see [Challenge message board](challenge-message-board.md) and [Step game daily tasks](step-game-daily-tasks.md).

## Huawei devices

Step sync from some Huawei devices may be limited. The onboarding page links to workaround guides where available.

## Related

- [Mobile app](../mobile-app/index.md)
- [Supported apps](../connections-with-apps/supported-apps.md)
- [Challenge onboarding page](challenge-onboarding-page.md)