St Sampson-based gym Anytime Fitness and mental health charity Guernsey Mind are joining forces to launch a new fitness Challenge to remind islanders of the importance of safeguarding their mental wellbeing through physical activity.
The Anytime Fitness Challenge invites businesses across the island to register teams of up to six participants to undertake as many visits to the gym as possible throughout February.
Entry costs are £10 per participant, with all proceeds from the Challenge going to Guernsey Mind to support its vital work within the local community.
The team registering the most visits during the month will win 12 months’ free membership to Anytime Fitness, while each participant will be eligible to join the gym at a reduction of 20 percent off the standard membership fee.
It is hoped that the campaign will encourage fitness enthusiasts of every ability to experience the many health benefits of undertaking physical activity on a regular basis.
Results from Mind’s national Workplace Wellbeing Index highlight the need for employers to continue to invest in workplace wellbeing as 51 percent of employees have experienced poor mental health. Research by the charity also indicates that even a small amount of physical activity, such as a 10-minute brisk walk, can increase energy levels, boost mood and help to reduce anxiety.
Maddy Diligent (shown to the right in the main picture), Marketing, Events and Fundraising Lead at Guernsey Mind, says: “We’re so pleased to be joining forces with Anytime Fitness and encouraging more islanders to experience the many benefits of undertaking regular physical activity. It’s been a challenging time for businesses of every size, but we know that exercise can help to reduce stress and increase self-esteem. Being physically active also gives your brain something to focus on and can be a positive strategy for managing difficult situations both at work and home.
“We really appreciate Anytime Fitness opening up their gym to host such an inclusive challenge for islanders and are so grateful that all of the proceeds will benefit the charity.”
Connor Thorne (shown to the left in the main picture), Director of Anytime Fitness, says: “We’re always looking for ways to support the local community and introduce islanders to the effective ways that working out can help to keep them physically fit and healthy.
“This is a brilliant opportunity to support Guernsey Mind with their vital work while encouraging a little healthy competition amongst local businesses!”
Registration for the Anytime Fitness Challenge opens on Thursday 20th January with the Challenge launching on Tuesday 1st February. Members of the emergency services are eligible for a 10 percent discount off the standard entry fee.
