An annual challenge that encourages people to do just 30 minutes of exercise a day is hoping to raise £50,000 for charities this year. 

The Tinathon challenge was first introduced in December 2019 to commemorate the life of Tina Jury who lost her life to cancer.

Over the last four years this challenge has raised over £40,000 for Winchester Hospice and Wessex Cancer Support.

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The annual challenge commits participants to 30 minutes of exercise every day in December, even on Christmas day. This could be anything from a home workout, a gym session, or even running with Santa’s sleigh.

During her life, Tina ran in over 100 marathons and continued to train and race during he chemotherapy treatment. She encouraged others to do the same.

Miranda Rocksmith, who organised the challenge alongside personal trainer Heather Terry, said: “Our fantastic Tinathon community continues to grow and support each other. Members tell us that taking time out every day to exercise during the Christmas chaos provides a real boost to their mental health.

"We are so proud to be finishing another year strong in memory of our special friend who was such an advocate for everyone finding joy in exercise.”

Miranda and Heather are supported by local clubs, gyms and other personal trainers who are providing free classes and online workouts for Tinathoners.

It is a £31 donation to join the challenge or £15.50 if you are under 16 and can be accessed via link on one of the Tinathon JustGiving pages. If participants miss a day a £5 ‘fine’ must be paid.

Alexandra Sports is supplying turquoise buffs for all participants so they are easy to spot whilst they train.

For more information visit @Tinathon23 on Instagram and Facebook.