One Small Step - Trek to Everest Base Camp

One Month Countdown

On the first day of 2024, I made a commitment to dust off my gym clothes, pull on my running shoes and commence a 4 month intense training schedule in preparation for my trek to Everest Base Camp. Today marks the final 4 week count down and geez am I excited!

Over the past 3 months I have focussed primarily on increasing my physical strength and fitness through gym, cardio exercises and sporting activities, whilst also focussing on strengthening my overall mental health and wellbeing. Let’s be honest, it hasn’t been all roses and sunshine, there was some challenging moments, but with the support and care from those around me I have been able to stay on target and kick a few goals along the way. They have honestly been pivotal in my journey to say the least.

As of today, I am also proud to say that we (yes we) have raised $1,877 towards mental health research, a cause sincerely close to my heart. These funds will support the amazing work that the Black Dog institute does, so thankyou!

During the final 4 weeks of my training programme I will seek to shift my focus to building up my leg strength and endurance, whilst continuing to push my cardio to ensure I am in tip top shape for the big trek.

Again, thankyou to everyone who has supported my ‘One Small Step’ cause and I look forward to providing you all with an update in 4 weeks time!

Mark xx

Be the change you want to see - Week 8

Checkpoint success. 8 weeks ago I set out on a journey to improve my overall physical and mental health in preparation for my trek to EBC. With the amazing support of my friends and family, I have managed to raise more than $1,800 towards mental health research, I’m simply blown away by the generosity of others!! You guys kinda rock!

Last weekend I pulled myself out of bed at 6am to complete my first 5km Fun Run to raise money towards #breastcancerawareness, another cause that is close to my heart. *see my cheeky selfie!

Eight weeks down, 11kgs lighter and feeling incredible, and how you may ask?

Firstly, it’s belief. Belief that you can do it, even when the odds are against you and it’s so much easier just to give up, #staystrong, you can do it and you will succeed.

And motivation. Motivation to wake up every morning and tackle each day as if it were a new challenge.

Base drop. It’s not easy, granted, and it probably never will be, but boy oh boy has it been worth it!

Look forward to sharing my next update x

Challenge equals progress - Week 6

Hi guys, wow week 6 down already! Training is in full flight and feeling fantastic both physically and mentally! Weekly training schedule includes 3 days in the gym working on both upper and lower body strength, pre-season AFL football training as well as 3 gruelling outdoor cardio sessions.

On 1 January 2024, I weighed in at 90.6kg on the scales and am now sitting at 81.4kg, thanks to a simple but clean diet of lean meats, lots of vegetables and fruits! Most importantly, I couldn’t have gotten here without the love, support and kindness of my partner, friends and family, who have been my driving inspiration!

My program will shift from week 8 to focus more on strength and conditioning, in preparation for the big hike! Keep an eye out for my next update, till then x

Ps donning my new running shades! Thanks for the tip @bradblackwell

First strength training sesh done & dusted

The adventure begins

One giant leap

Hey guys, firstly, wow!! I am truly overwhelmed with the level of incredible generosity and support towards my ‘One Small Step’ fundraiser for mental health.

To everyone who has donated, thank you for your kindness and belief in this cause, I simply cannot express my appreciation enough. I am also thrilled to announce that my target of $1k has not only been reached, but exceeded!!!

Your contributions will make a profound difference in the lives of those affected by mental health challenges.

Thank you for standing with me in this endeavor. Your support means the world.

#Hearts4MentalHealth

What an amazing start!