As you may of heard the 3144 push-ups in 23 days starts tomorrow.
This challenge is a great opportunity to support an important cause as every day we lose more than 6 men to suicide in Australia, with males accounting for around three-quarters of national suicides.
The benefit of challenges such as this is the awareness and connection it creates. Many Australians come together, get fit and have fun for The Push-Up Challenge.
It is going to take lots of effort and strong will power but it is doable. 3144 push-ups in 23 days means an average of 137 push-ups a day.
It may sounds extreme and impossible for many people. But if you split it into small intervals of 15 push-ups every hour, it may not feel as bad.
You could raise money, or just awareness through your commitment to this challenge and you’ll improve your own health and well-being at the same time.
Together, we can push for better mental health.
If you are keen download this 3144 Push Ups in 23 Days Challenge Tracker I’ve created to help you break it down into achievable sessions and track you progress as you go!
The goal is 3,144 push-ups. But if sit-ups, squats or another exercise are more your thing? Then go for it. Even doing half the push-up total (1,572) is a big achievement. If it ups the heartrate and shines a light on male suicide, we’re all for it.
Stay strong and healthy
Jacek
Join the Movember 3144 Push Up Challenge
How Can Exercise and Fitness Impact Mental Health?
As a Personal trainer, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact that fitness and exercise can have on not just our physical health but also our mental well-being.
It’s not just about building muscles and losing weight; it’s about finding inner strength, improving self-confidence, and even preventing the unthinkable.
There is undoubtedly a profound connection between fitness, exercise, and mental health, and its role in suicide prevention.
The Science Behind the Connection
Exercise isn’t just a mood-booster; it’s backed by science! When we engage in physical activity, our brain releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, often referred to as “feel-good” chemicals. These neurotransmitters help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation. Regular exercise also improves blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function and overall mental well-being.
Stress Relief and Emotional Resilience
Life can throw us some serious curveballs, and stress can take a toll on our mental health. However, exercise acts as a powerful stress reliever. Whether it’s a high-intensity workout or a calming yoga session, physical activity helps us channel our emotions, release tension, and clear our minds. It boosts our emotional resilience, allowing us to cope better with daily challenges and bounce back from setbacks.
Boosting Self-Confidence and Empowerment
One of the remarkable outcomes of regular exercise is the positive impact it has on our self-confidence and self-esteem. As we set and achieve fitness goals, we witness our bodies and minds transform. This sense of accomplishment not only improves our body image but also instills a deep sense of empowerment and self-belief. Feeling strong and capable, we become more resilient against negative thoughts and better equipped to overcome difficult times.
Creating a Supportive Community
Fitness and exercise can also provide a platform for building meaningful connections and fostering a supportive community. Joining group fitness classes, sports teams, or workout clubs allows individuals to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and struggles. This sense of belonging and camaraderie offers a vital support system, providing encouragement, motivation, and a sense of belonging.
Suicide Prevention
While fitness and exercise alone may not be a cure-all for mental health conditions or suicidal thoughts, they play an essential role in prevention. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of developing mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, which are often linked to suicidal ideation. Engaging in exercise can serve as a positive coping mechanism, providing individuals with a healthy outlet for their emotions and a sense of purpose.
Fitness and exercise are powerful tools that positively impact both our physical and mental well-being. As a personal trainer, I strongly believe that incorporating regular physical activity into our lives can enhance our mental health, build resilience, and play a crucial role in suicide prevention.
So lace up those sneakers, find an activity you enjoy, and let fitness guide you towards a healthier mind, body, and soul.