Two personal trainers led a 10k run carrying sandbags to raise awareness for men’s mental health.
World record holder Ben Haldon and fitness influencer Harry Balmer, ran with more than 30 others, carrying 1000kg in sandbags across Manchester city centre on Saturday.
Raising money for men’s mental health charity, Movember UK, they shared the load of heavy sandbags – to symbolise the weight so many men “silently carry”.
Haldon said, to anyone struggling: “It’s like going through a dark tunnel all the time and you can either pull up a chair and sit in it, or you can start to take the uncomfortable step to move towards the light.
“And as soon as you start taking those uncomfortable steps, that’s when life starts getting better.
“Just try and take one more step, just try and make it one more day, and I promise it will start to feel better.”
Before they set off, Balmer reminded everyone how difficult the challenge is – encouraging the guys to talk, and build “lifelong friendships” along the way.
The event was a success – Balmer said quite a few lads had travelled a long way specifically to take part.
Twenty-five year old Tom had heard of the 5k sandbag runs Balmer previously hosted, and was keen to take on the challenge.
He said: “It’s a huge turnout – it’s good.
“It’s nice to get out and meet people, especially when you move away from home.
“Coming to a different city, and you don’t really know anyone – it’s good to meet like-minded people.”
Guys were already getting to know each other and joking around – “I’m just doing this to get fit and healthy” said Liv, 21.
Twenty-seven year old Jordan told MM he does a lot of work in the mental health space.
He said: “I wanted to come down to network, support people and join a good cause.”
After learning the worrying statistics on men taking their own lives, Jacob, 26 said he came along with friends to raise awareness and have a good day.
Two years ago, Haldon, 33 had a testicular cancer scare – he was inspired to support others, after undergoing surgery to remove a non-malignant lump.
He was keen to let people know Movember works to support men’s mental health all year round, not just in November.
They hope events like this encourage men to find people to talk to.
According to a report by Bupa, less than a quarter (24%) of men who’ve struggled with their mental health, say they would talk to their friends about their struggles.
But researchers found 40% of men would like to be able to speak more openly about their problems.
Medical director for Bupa insurance, Dr Naveen Puri said “men tend to suffer in silence” but it’s incredibly important to seek support.
He added: “It’s likely male family members or friends have experienced the same thing.
“Speaking about it can really help to reassure and make you feel less isolated.”
Bupa also reported: “While stigma around mental health is improving, nearly a third of men still don’t know where to turn for help.
“What’s more, less than half of men would seek medical advice for their mental health struggles, owing to the stigma surrounding it.”
Speaking to your GP or someone you trust is a good place to start if you’re struggling with your mental health.
If you need someone to talk to urgently, contact the Samaritans helpline at 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258.
Visit https://uk.movember.com/support-us for more information on how to help.
All images by Divine Neza
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