Suicide is a reality communities can’t run from, but Anytime Fitness North Albury are encouraging residents to jump on a treadmill for suicide awareness.
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Across Australia thousands of residents will take to the gym on Friday and Saturday as a part of a 24 hour marathon to raise money for Suicide Prevention Australia.
Border Anytime Fitness owner Jai Forster said the treadmill challenge started four years ago after, but was taken up by Anytime Fitness management this year to help spread the message widely.
“For me, I coach a lot of personal trainers about building their own businesses and as far as performing in business, it builds a lot of pressure,” he said.
“Personally I’m concerned by the affect on men, men don’t speak out, they bottle it up and suicide rates are higher among men than women.”
Mr Forster said he hoped running the event in North Albury would help those who are struggling by creating a community of openness and support.
He said exercise also released endorphins which could help ease depression.
“One of the key drivers in feeling good and fighting depression is exercise, action and movement, it’s key,” he said.
“It’s also about community – coming to the gym and creating connections, training with others and support each other.
“In fitness there’s a focus on the physical. I like to coach people to think of the emotional side and it’s link to the physical, I think it’s important.”
Mr Forster, originally from Wodonga, returned to the region three months ago to purchase the Anytime Fitness gyms and give back to the community.
“It’s really important to me,” he said.
“With an event like this any team is welcome whether they’re a member or not, it’s about open doors and getting together in the community spirit so people can feel good.”
Mr Forster said one man, Connor Hardy, would be running the who 24 hour period, but they needed more people to sign up for a slot on the second treadmill.
He said individuals or teams could sign up for 15 minute slots for $15, with money going towards Suicide Prevention Australia.
“We need more people to join to book out our second treadmill, you can walk, run, dance anything as long as it’s moving,” he said.
Mr Forster said a netball team had booked out a couple of hours for players to rotate which was a great example of groups getting involved.
He said those unable to walk could donate.
“Everyone knows someone who has been affected by suicide,” he said.
Digital journalists with The Border Mail.
Digital journalists with The Border Mail.
