Up to 1000 people are expected to attend the biggest boot camp in Melbourne’s west, which was spurred by high levels of stress in the transport industry.
Westgate Gym at Altona North is holding the event to raise awareness of depression and anxiety and funds for Beyond Blue.
Gym owner Martin Williams said mental health was an important issue in the area as it has many transport and logistics workers.
“[With] the high level of stress in the transport industry, long hours, it’s kind of a dangerous field,” he said. “We’ve got all the major transport industries this way; it’s more a heavily male-dominated factory industry.
“Beyond Blue recognises the male stress and anxiety that can play a part.”
Mr Williams said working out was a way for many to improve mind health.
“When you’re training and you’re enjoying the training environment, it becomes a part of your lifestyle and it’s a really great form of escape,” he said.
“We find a lot of members here are very structured in the way they train and their dedication to their training, and it becomes an integral part of their life.
“It’s an integral part of both your mental approach to life and your physical ability to be able to cope.”
The boot camp is on May 4 from 7.30am, with a second morning session planned if the event gets too big.
Tickets are pre-purchase and sponsors are being sought. For more information visit the Westgate Gym Facebook page.
Goya Dmytryshchak
