Fitness training as part of a group proved difficult during lockdown, however the staff at Tuxford Academy found an innovative and exciting way to keep fit and motivated by taking part in virtual fitness challenges together.
The first challenge was to run, walk, cycle, paddle, row or swim the distance from Land’s End to John O’Groats – a collective total of 1,407km. Each participant added their mileage to a shared spreadsheet. This allowed staff to keep active and motivated as part of a team but in their own local surroundings.
The success of the first challenge inspired staff to begin a second challenge, ‘Around the World in 80 days’. For this huge 40,025km challenge, staff ran, walked, cycled, paddled, rowed or swam – every little bit counted. One member of staff actually completed it on a mobility scooter. A special mention goes to Gary Holmes, who has run every day for the last 20 months. On completing the challenge staff were proudly awarded medals.
These fitness challenges have encouraged staff to experience the benefits of exercise and team working during lockdown as well as supporting their physical and mental wellbeing. Now lockdown has ended the fitness challenge has developed into ‘Fitness Friday’ where staff train together after school. A big thank you to Jamie Tegerdine for organising these amazing challenges and keeping staff motivated during a challenging time.
