The adrenaline is pumping, the sweat is flying, and the muscles are contracting with residents across Northern NSW each completing 3,214 push-ups over 23 days this June as part of The Push-Up Challenge.

Now in its ninth year, the Challenge brings together Aussies of all ages, abilities and walks of life to get fit, have fun and do something positive for their mental health.

Individuals, workplaces, schools and clubs around the country are taking on the 3,214 push-ups, which are representative of the 3,214 lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2023, with many participants choosing to raise funds for Lifeline Northern NSW.

Lifeline Direct CEO Luke Lindsay said, “The Push-Up Challenge is a great opportunity for Australians to talk about their mental health, learn how to best support each other and recognise when they might need to put their own hand up for help. It’s a massive undertaking, but Northern NSW locals are pulling up their sleeves, getting down and getting it done for the good of their own mental health, and the mental health of our community.”  

“More people than ever before are reaching out to Lifeline for help and support, and the money raised through The Push-Up Challenge will help us continue to support the mental health and wellbeing of people in Northern NSW,” commented Mr Lindsay. 

Founder of The Push-Up Challenge, Nick Hudson, said Australia’s commitment to learning about, and supporting mental health, never failed to defy expectations:

“Taking on The Push-Up Challenge is no easy feat. But year after year, Australia shows up for us. The Challenge is about so much more than getting mentally and physically fit: our participants are sparking thousands of conversations about mental health every single day, helping us improve Australia’s mental health literacy while also breaking down the stigma attached to mental illness. We’re letting people who are struggling know that they can reach out and receive the support they need without judgement.”

Each day, participants complete their push-ups while learning about mental health, with the number of push-ups changing day to day to reflect a vital mental health fact. And if completing 3,214 push-ups feels out of reach, participants can set their own push-up goal, or choose exercise alternatives such as sit-ups, squats or tailored exercises, with progress tracked through a dedicated app.

To register for The Push-Up Challenge or to support this year’s participants by making a donation, visit www.thepushupchallenge.com.au