Bega Headspace Push-up Challenge to raise money for the community

The challenge is to either form a group or go solo in achieving as many push-ups as you can throughout June.

The goal is to work towards 3318 push ups over the 25 days in June, but people can aim for 25 per cent, 50 per cent or 100 per cent of the push up target, depending how your muscles hold up!

The specific number of push-ups was chosen to recognise the 3318 Australians who died by suicide in 2019.

"Everyone in the community has been impacted by suicide in some way, so this is a meaningful and personal campaign to get behind," Headspace worker Carly McDonald said.

People taking part in the challenge have the option to raise money that they can donate towards Headspace Bega.

Headspace Bega will be putting the funds raised directly back into the community, to continue its work around suicide prevention, particularly with local youth.

It will do this by either creating youth activities, camps, or funding another worker to join the team.

Ms McDonald said last year Headspace Wollongong raised $20,000 and used the funds to run a youth camp based at Fitzroy Falls.

"It was really good to see the money go directly to the people," Ms McDonald said.

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If you're interested in taking on the challenge, or want to make a donation to the Bega Headspace branch, head to its website.

The challenge doesn't have to be completed alone, people can sign up as a team or even get their workplace, gym, sports club or school involved.

If push-ups aren't your thing, there is the alternative for sit-ups, squats or tailored exercises.

The push for the fitness challenge is said to also bring mental and physical wellbeing, as exercising is proven to provide anti-depressant benefits.

The process is simplified through an app that guides you through it all.

It will track your pushups, give out daily badges, tracks how others are doing and teaches mental health points.

Visit www.thepushupchallenge.com.au for more details and resources.

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