Pedalling for headspace

Elevation Gym and headspace Rockingham last week teamed up for a 24-hour challenge to raise awareness of mental health.

Over three days, Elevation Gym team members, headspace Rockingham representatives and members of the public kept the pedals of an exercise bike ticking over for 24 hours.

Based at the Warnbro Centre, participants completed up to hour-long blocks on the bike to start conversations about mental health and raise funds along the way.

Headspace community awareness officer Claire Morley said exercise played a big part in mental health.

“When we look at mental health we need to think holistically, physically, mentally, socially and emotionally,” she said.

“Staying active can be a great way for young people to manage stress, boost their mood, sleep better and become more socially connected to their community and even make friendships.

“This is also a good way to take a break from whatever they may be doing, whether its study or work, and getting to the gym, playing sports, going for a walk or kicking a ball with a friend.

“So the concept of raising awareness and funds for mental health by having someone on the bike constantly is a positive one.”

Elevation Gym manager Kylie Johnson said the idea behind the challenge was to highlight to the community the importance of working on both physical and mental health.