LIMESTONE Coast residents are gearing up to literally push themselves to a new level while raising funds and awareness for youth mental health.
The national Push-Up Challenge combines fitness, mental health and community spirit with teams from schools, sporting clubs and friendship groups as well as individuals across the region already signing up to complete the required 3046 push-ups over 21 days.
The 3046 target represents the lives lost to suicide in 2018 – the year the challenge was established in response to news suicide was the leading cause of death among people aged between 15 and 44 years.
While last year’s campaign raised funds for the national headspace body, this year participants can nominate their preferred branch to receive donations, with headspace Mount Gambier urging the community to support the cause.
headspace Mount Gambier community liaison worker Nick McInerney said it was particularly important for Limestone Coast residents to become involved as funds could be distributed back into the region.
“We are hoping this will attract more local people to become involved and create some local pride for the region,” he said.
“So far we have around 40 people signed up from across 10 to 12 teams including members from local football and netball clubs, schools, gyms and other friendship groups.
“We would love to see Australians across the country rally together to join us, challenging themselves physically, staying connected with their communities and most importantly, just having fun.”
Mr McInerney said it was an ideal time to challenge friends and families with usual sporting activities off limits.
“Push-ups are a great workout which you can do anywhere. You do not need any equipment and they can be completed from home,” he said.
“Social distancing and COVID-19 restrictions continue to be encouraged during the challenge.”
With a total of 3046 push-ups, Mr McInerney said the final target could be tackled by an individual or as a team and the push-ups could be spread across the day.
“The figure can seem daunting, but it is achievable,” he said.
“If there are people who are unable to do push-ups for whatever reason, there are variations which people can complete instead.”
Mr McInerney said there were many advantages to the challenge and everybody was encouraged to participate, no matter their circumstance.
“The physical health benefits are obvious, but there will also be mental health tips and statistics which will be shared among participants throughout the campaign,” he said.
“Even if people do not have the capacity to fundraise or donate, we are encouraging people to become involved regardless.
“We welcome creativity and are happy to see whatever anyone is able to come up with.”
The challenge starts on May 11 and will run until May 31.
People interested in registering are encouraged to visit the Push-Up Challenge website.
