10K Steps Miami: The women's group turning friendship into a viral phenomenon

What started as a small walking group has grown into a powerful movement that brings hundreds of women together every Saturday morning in downtown Miami.

The group, known as 10K Steps Miami, recently went viral after a video of its weekly walk gained nearly half a million likes and more than 800,000 views on Instagram. The footage shows women walking side by side through the city, smiling, laughing, and encouraging one another—capturing a moment that resonated with viewers across the country.

But the movement is about far more than just exercise.

“It’s exactly what we envisioned,” said Cassius Bythewood, co-founder of 10K Steps Miami. “The fact that this clip is what went viral feels very full circle for us.”

Bythewood and co-founder Josephine Letner started the group just a few months ago with only five women. Today, hundreds show up every Saturday at 10:30 a.m., all seeking connection, consistency, and community.

Letner says the response highlights a deeper need, especially among women in South Florida.

“Spending time with other women is extremely healing,” she said.

The walk is a women-only space, designed to feel safe and welcoming. Bythewood is the only man involved, attending alongside a security team that walks with the group each week.

“We have five armed security guards that walk with us,” Bythewood said, emphasizing the group’s commitment to safety.

Beyond physical fitness, organizers say the walks also support mental and spiritual health, creating a space where women can find encouragement and form new friendships.

“We have women every single week who say it’s their first time,” Letner said. “I always tell them, ‘Come. I’ll connect you with someone. I’ll make sure you find a friend and have the best experience.’”

10K Steps Miami meets every Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in downtown Miami. The walks are free, open to women only, and begin at Sixty Vines, located at 50 NE 8th Street.