Step aside, Nittany Lions — there’s a new pack in town, and they’re walking their way to self-confidence, one step at a time.

The Hot Girl Walk Club at Penn State is about building friendships and boosting self-esteem. Founded by students inspired by the global “Hot Girl Walk” movement, the club encourages participants to join a four-mile walk where they focus on three key elements: gratitude, personal goals, and self-confidence.

The idea is simple but powerful. During the walk, members take time to reflect on what they’re grateful for, outline their goals, and remind themselves of their worth.

“A four-mile walk where you focus on three different things: one being the things you were grateful for, an opportunity to get your mind off daily stressors and think about the good things; second, you think about your goals and how you achieve them, making yourself proud; and third, how hot you are,” club President Olesya Lebedeva said.

Lebedeva’s approach helps build a supportive environment where everyone can feel good about themselves and connect with others.

Meetings occur a few times every month, typically on Sunday afternoons in front of Old Main. The club welcomes everyone, regardless of gender, to create an inclusive environment.

“It’s super inclusive. It’s accessible,” Lebedeva said. “You don’t necessarily have to be a woman, either. [We’re] not letting the name stop others from joining. The name is just a phrase.” 

In addition to the walks, the club plans to host bonding events and collaborate with other organizations to promote wellness in many ways. Activities may include mindfulness sessions, guest speakers, and fitness challenges that encourage participants to engage both physically and mentally.

“We are going to be doing some bonding events, collaborating with other organizations, and using this walk to prioritize wellness,” Lebedeva said.

Prioritizing her own wellness while also helping other people prioritize theirs is something Lebedeva particularly enjoys.

The club’s mission goes beyond fitness, as it aims to create a positive community. Members often share their personal journeys to create a space where everyone feels comfortable discussing their struggles and achievements.

“The people around you shape who you are, and if you surround yourself with those positive people, you are going to get that out of yourself,” Lebedeva said.

The Hot Girl Walk Club has gotten support from brands like Reebok, Good Foods, and Lululemon, enhancing its visibility and outreach. The partnership with these brands promotes fitness and reinforces the club’s commitment to wellness and community.

To stay connected, members use GroupMe for updates and announcements. If you’re interested, you can quickly join by emailing Olesya Lebedeva at [email protected].