Our CEO to run 100 miles in 100 days

The CEO of Suffolk Mind will be taking on 100 miles for Suffolk Mind – in 100 days to raise money and awareness for the mental health charity, as well as supporting his own mental health and wellbeing.

Jon Neal is taking on the popular challenge, from January 1, 2022, to motivate himself to get moving throughout the winter months. Jon will be running a mile a day to get him to the springtime.

Jon said: “Like with many people, lockdown has led to my physical activity disappearing from my day-to-day life…not that it was particularly present before. So I need to motivate myself to get up off my chair, away from my desk and out in my trainers.

“A challenge like this – running a mile a day for 100 days – is the perfect way to spur me on to doing something whilst also raising funds to support people in our community.”

Research from Suffolk Mind shows that since the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns, more than half of us in Suffolk are still not, on average, meeting our emotional needs, which means we are experiencing stress and are at risk of mental ill health. Our report also shows that we have all been exercising and moving less.

Jon continued: “Movement and exercise is key to good mental wellbeing. Just 30 minutes of brisk walking three to four times a week – getting our heart rate above its resting level – is enough to trigger endorphin release which is equivalent in its effect to anti-depressant medication.

“We want to encourage people to get moving as part of our 100 miles for Suffolk Mind – in 100 days challenge to help people feel better during the winter months, whilst raising money to support our vital services.”

For more details about the 100 Miles for Suffolk Mind – in 100 days challenge, click here.

You can also sponsor Jon here.