Want to work out but just can’t find the motivation? Then maybe one of these charity fitness events is perfect for you.
The perfect balance of wellness, fun, and giving back, they’re what you health-conscious philanthropist lot have been asking us for. And while being charitable is just a damn good thing to be, there’s also evidence to indicate that taking the time to give back may actually contribute to your sporting prowess.
Research by the University of British Columbia suggests that altruism – actively caring for others – can replicate the effects of high-frequency workouts and healthy eating. In the study, participants were allocated a sum of money, with half told to spend on themselves and the rest to spend on others. After several weeks, with no change to diet or exercise, those who spent on others experienced statistically significant drops in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Other research into the act of giving has identified philanthropy as an antidote to isolation – a feeling most have known all too well recently.
So if you’re looking to give back, or just want to get involved in a fun day out with friends, here are 4 charity fitness events to get involved in.
Walk for Autism
When: May
Where: Digital/anywhere
Did you know that it’s estimated that 1 in 100 people in Australia have autism? By stepping up and walking 7k steps a day this May, you will be helping initiate positive change so those on the autism spectrum feel accepted and understood. You can walk solo or in a team with your workplace, friends, family or school. And every step you take, along with every dollar you raise will help create an autism-friendly world. A world where autistic people feel comfortable and free to be their authentic selves.
To make it extra fun they’ve got a range of fundraising reward prizes and badges up for grabs including the iconic Walk For Autism T-Shirt, the chance to win a $1000 shopping voucher and a Life’s An Adventure walking tour for two people, plus more.
Australia’s Biggest Bushwalk
When: May
Where: Digital/anywhere
If you’re an animal lover, this one is for you. Help to protect the forests, rivers and reefs that our pink cockatoos, koalas and spectacular marine life call home by joining thousands of people across Australia on Australia’s Biggest Bushwalk. Every dollar you raise goes directly to supporting the Australian Conservation Foundation’s work in solving the extinction crisis and standing up for nature.
To get involved, head online and register as an individual or team. Then simply set your fundraising goal and get active around your local area, parks and bush.
australiasbiggestbushwalk.org.au
HBF Run for a Reason
When: Sunday 19 May
Where: Perth
HBF Run for a Reason is Perth’s biggest annual fitness fundraising challenge and has been bringing over 30,000 people together annually since 2010. Each year, thousands of participants choose a charity and fundraising goal to run, walk, or wheel towards. The event has helped raise more than $11 million over 11 years, for over 200 charities, so for its 12th year, HBF Run for a Reason 2024 is aiming to raise over $1.2 million for charities while celebrating togetherness in the heart of Perth.
There are three different events for different runner levels, which you can check out here.
Steps4migraine
When: Sunday 16 June
Where: Melbourne CBD (from Flagstaff Gardens to Treasury Gardens)
On Sunday 16 June Steps4migraine will put a focus on Australia’s number one cause of disability and its huge physical, social and economic toll, with all funds raised going to education, service delivery and research in this field.
In the lead up to World Migraine Day, Steps4migraine participants will tread a combined total of five million steps across the Melbourne CBD (from Flagstaff Gardens to Treasury Gardens) to signify the five million Australians who suffer from migraine. The event will also highlight how people can help prevent brain disorders (including chronic migraine) and keep their brains healthy by adopting the new ‘Life’s Ten’ approach – 10 lifestyle habits, including simple exercise, stress management and quality sleep.
Steps4migraine is a family-friendly event. Get involved by registering at steps4migraine.com, so this year’s event can be even bigger and its message further reaching.
