Mental Health Charity Mind HK Announces Move It for Mental Health 2024

Hong Kong mental health charity Mind HK is thrilled to announce its annual Move It for Mental Health 2024 campaign for its seventh consecutive turn. The initiative sheds light on the profound benefits of exercising in nature for both mental and physical health. The campaign, beginning in March, is taking a fresh approach by combining a virtual 50km challenge with an exciting physical Fun Run.

Exercise has long been recognised for its positive impact on mental health. It not only improves mood but also reduces stress and anxiety, boosts self-esteem, and enhances cognitive function. Exercise can also effectively reduce the risk of depression and can be used as a treatment for mild to moderate symptoms of depression.

A quarter of adults in Hong Kong do not achieve even the minimum recommended level of physical activity, and only 5.2% of young people aged 5-17 meet the recommended activity levels on weekdays. Additionally, there has been a noticeable decline in the number of individuals visiting the countryside, with 37% reporting fewer visits in 2023 compared to the previous year.

These statistics underscore the urgent need to encourage and support individuals in adopting regular outdoor exercise habits in Hong Kong, especially considering that 1 in every 6 people in the territory experiences a mental health condition.

By registering online, individuals can join the virtual challenge and complete a cumulative distance of 50km in nature. This can be accomplished in a single continuous endeavour or through multiple running, hiking, or walking sessions. Additionally, participants are encouraged to take part in the first-ever in-person Fun Run event. This not only adds depth to the 50km goal but also fosters a vibrant sense of community.

The 50km in nature virtual challenge will run from March 1 to 31, and is free of charge. Registration is open via Give Asia until Sunday, March 10. Participants can achieve their goal by choosing outdoor activities such as walking, running, or hiking along nature trails, coastal walks, or country parks individually or as a team, all while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the spring season.

Those who successfully complete the challenge and participate in an end-of-challenge Wellbeing Survey will have a chance to win exciting prizes from supporting brands such as lululemon, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, and The Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong.

Participants can also choose to make donations during the checkout process to receive a limited-edition 'Move It' tote bag as a token of Mind HK's appreciation. Alternatively, they can become a #MoveitHK supporter and help raise funds for Mind HK through the Give Asia fundraising page. These efforts contribute to improving access to mental health services for the community.

The campaign will feature the first in-person Fun Run on March 3, from 8:30 AM to 12 PM, starting from the AIA Vitality Hub. Participants can choose to run or walk the 5km course along the harbourfront in Central. The event will commence with a pre-race warm-up led by lululemon Ambassador Calvin Chan, ensuring participants are energised and ready to enjoy the course.

Post-run refreshments and the opportunity to mingle with fellow participants make this event a unique and fulfilling experience. It allows individuals not only to engage in invigorating physical activity but also to immerse themselves in the outdoors and the community. Registration for the in-person Fun Run event is available via Eventbrite.