Man completes nearly 2,000 burpees for Dorset Mind charity

On Sunday, April 19, Russell Tickner took part in a burpee challenge to raise money for Dorset Mind.

Setting out and attempting to complete 2,000 burpees, Russell wanted to take part in a challenge that would require not just physical resilience, but mental resilience too.

Russell pictured at the recent event (Image: Russell Tickner)

After struggling with his own mental health, he thought that this event would reflect the challenges faced by those going through the same difficulties.

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Russell described that the day started off 'incredibly hot' and he found it difficult to see himself getting 'anywhere close' to his goal.

However, he said that the support from the public and the Dorset Mind volunteers made it 'enjoyable'.

He said: "People brought me milkshakes and sweets to help me through, fantastic community effort."

Russell said that he finished on 1,600 burpees in just over four hours- experiencing headaches, dizziness and intense pain in his elbow.

He added: "After all, this wasn't 'I will do 2000'- this was knowing your limits and knowing when to ask for help, as that's real life. Putting myself into a position that I could fail but accepting it."

Public join-in board at event (Image: Russell Tickner)

There was also a board for the public to join in and they managed to reach more than 1,000 burpees altogether.

Russell has since expressed his thanks for the support from those who attended and who donated, having raised hundreds of pounds for the mental health charity.

Russell added: "I would like to thank everyone for their support in what was a bonkers event."

Following the event, Dorset Mind congratulated Russell and the members of the public who joined in the event.

A spokesperson for Dorset Mind said: "A huge congratulations to Russell for completing an astonishing 1,500 burpees and raising over £700 in support of Dorset Mind.

"Alongside this achievement, members of the community completed over 1,300 burpees to show their support, creating a powerful display of resilience, collaboration and shared purpose.

"Every pound raised helps us continue providing essential mental health support across Dorset."

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