Hockeyroo goalkeeper Rachael Lynch is calling on Australians to kickstart their health after months of brutal statewide lockdowns.
Hockeyroo goalkeeper Rachael Lynch is calling on Australians to kickstart their health and get some sunshine after months of brutal statewide lockdowns.
After recently competing at the Tokyo Olympics, Lynch, a registered nurse and a mental health ambassador, has signed up to the Heart Foundation’s MyMarathon fitness challenge while also helping to raise money for life-saving heart disease research.
The annual marathon encourages participants to walk or run 42.2 kilometres in however many stages they choose.
“As an athlete, I’m a big advocate for healthy living and mental and physical health,” Lynch said. “I’ve rounded up a few girls and we’re trying to make an event out of it to raise money and engage with people to run a few kilometres or go the whole way.
“With continuous stresses and pressures going on, heading outside for some fresh air and getting your body moving is important in so many ways. It’s a great way to connect with friends and family, and if you’ve got someone with you, it’s more enjoyable”
Heart Foundation director of active living, Adjunct Professor Trevor Shilton, said anyone can get involved, no matter what your age, location, background or fitness level.
“You can do it in four hours, four days or four weeks; you can do it on your own or part of a team with friends or colleagues; you can walk, run or wheel; you can do it anywhere you like – it’s a very flexible way to complete a marathon.
“In addition to ticking ‘do a marathon’ off your bucket list, your heart will thank you for taking part.
“The more people who take part, the more funds can be raised to help the Heart Foundation end the heartache caused by heart disease.”
To register for MyMarathon, visit mymarathon.com.au
Originally published as Hockeyroo Rachael Lynch’s message for Australians to get outside for a good cause