The city of Kelowna is gearing up for a unique initiative that combines physical fitness with mental health advocacy. The Push-Up Challenge, organized by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Kelowna, is set to commence on February 11th, encouraging residents to engage in a collective effort to raise awareness and support for mental well-being.
What is the Push-Up Challenge?
The Push-Up Challenge is a fitness-based event where participants aim to complete 2,000 push-ups over a span of 18 days. This number symbolizes the approximate 2,000 lives lost to suicide worldwide each day. While the challenge encourages push-ups, it is inclusive, offering alternative exercises like squats or sit-ups for those who may not be able to perform push-ups. This ensures that individuals of all ages and fitness levels can participate.
Mike Gawliuk, CEO of CMHA Kelowna, emphasizes the importance of the challenge: “The Push-Up Challenge is a terrific event that is more than just a physical challenge, it’s a powerful way to bring our community together to raise awareness and support mental health. By participating, individuals not only challenge themselves but also contribute to a collective effort to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Every push-up, conversation started, and dollar raised can make an impactful difference in someone’s life.”
Challenge Details
- Dates: February 11th to February 28th
- Goal: 2,000 push-ups (or alternative exercises) over 18 days
- Tracking: Participants can track their progress using a dedicated app.
- Cost: Free to participate.
- Fundraising: Optional, with proceeds benefiting the CMHA.
Origin and Impact
The Push-Up Challenge originated in Australia in 2018 and has since expanded internationally. In 2024, the first year Canada partook in the challenge, over 49,000 Canadians participated and raised $2.4 million for mental health initiatives. Since its inception, the challenge has seen over 700,000 participants complete one billion push-ups and raise over $50 million AUD for mental health.
The Link Between Exercise and Mental Health
The Push-Up Challenge highlights the strong connection between physical activity and mental well-being. Regular exercise has been proven to have numerous benefits for mental health, including:
- Stress Reduction: Exercise helps to relieve stress and tension.
- Mood Improvement: Physical activity releases endorphins and serotonin, which have mood-boosting effects.
- Improved Sleep: Regular exercise can improve sleep quality.
- Increased Energy Levels: Exercise can combat fatigue and increase perceived energy levels.
- Better Memory: Exercise can improve cognitive function and memory.
Research consistently demonstrates that individuals who exercise regularly experience better mental health and emotional well-being, and have lower rates of mental illness. Even modest amounts of exercise can make a significant difference.
Exercise and Mental Health Conditions
Exercise can play a vital role in managing symptoms of various mental health conditions:
- Depression: Studies show that exercise can be as effective as medication in treating mild to moderate depression.
- Anxiety: Exercise can help to reduce anxiety symptoms and improve coping mechanisms.
- Schizophrenia: Physical conditioning programs have shown improvements in weight control, fitness levels, and perceived energy levels for patients with schizophrenia.
Kelowna’s Commitment to Mental Health
Kelowna offers a range of resources and support systems for individuals seeking mental health assistance:
- Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Kelowna: Provides community resources and mental health programs.
- Interior Health Mental Health & Substance Use Services: Offers a variety of mental health and substance use services for all ages.
- Okanagan Mental Health Services Society (OMHSS): Assists individuals with mental illness in finding employment and housing.
- Foundry Kelowna: An integrated clinic for youth aged 12-24 and their families, addressing mental health and substance use.
- UBCO Interprofessional Walk-in Mental Health Clinic: Offers free virtual and walk-in counselling appointments.
- Crisis Lines: 24/7 crisis lines are available for individuals considering suicide or in need of emotional support.
These resources reflect Kelowna’s dedication to providing accessible and comprehensive mental health support to its residents.
Community Fitness Programs in Kelowna
Beyond the Push-Up Challenge, Kelowna offers various fitness programs that contribute to both physical and mental well-being:
- City of Kelowna Recreation Programs: Seasonal recreation and cultural programs, including fitness classes, sports leagues, and swimming lessons for all ages and abilities.
- Sweat Studios: Group fitness classes ranging from boot camp to barre, yoga to cycling, and Pilates to dance.
- Rec Fitness Kelowna: Group fitness classes and personal training.
- Kelowna Bootcamp: Inclusive fitness community for all levels.
- FAME (Fitness and Mobility Exercise) Program: In-person classes at Parkinson Recreation Centre.
These programs provide opportunities for individuals to engage in physical activity, connect with others, and improve their overall well-being.
How to Participate in the Push-Up Challenge
Residents of Kelowna and beyond are encouraged to participate in the Push-Up Challenge. Registration can be completed on The Push-Up Challenge website. Participants can choose to fundraise for the CMHA or simply participate to improve their own mental and physical health.
Taking the First Step
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, the Push-Up Challenge offers a chance to make a positive impact on both your own life and the lives of others. By participating, you contribute to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and supporting mental health initiatives in Kelowna and across Canada. It’s also an opportunity to discover the profound connection between physical activity and mental well-being.
Mental Health Resources in Kelowna
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for support. Here are some valuable resources available in Kelowna:
- Crisis Line Association of BC – Kelowna Crisis Line: 1.888.353.2273 (1.888.353.CARE)
- 1-800-SUICIDE: 1-800-784-2433
- 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 anytime
- Canadian Mental Health Association, Kelowna: 1-250-861-3644, cmhakelowna.com
- Foundry Kelowna: 1-236-420-2803, foundrybc.ca/kelowna
- Interior Health Mental Health & Substance Use: interiorhealth.ca
- Okanagan Mental Health Services Society: okanaganmentalhealth.com
- UBCO Interprofessional Walk-in Mental Health Clinic: 250-807-8241, ipc.ok@ubc.ca
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and support is always available.
