The idea behind the One Million Punches challenge was Chris and Andreas’ idea, brothers who opened The Fit Factory gym and boxing club in Cockfosters a few years ago. They just love getting the community involved in charitable projects and came up with the concept as they knew I was keen to raise some funds for Aspire. 

I always love a challenge!  It keeps me motivated to keep healthy and fit and always love raising money for charity. It’s important to help when and where you can.

The event was really successful.  We had approximately 100 people in and out throughout the day, all taking part and doing their bit, and even the kids helped reach our target!  It was a great family fun day where everyone got involved. We managed to reach the target of one million punches after about four hours - quicker than I thought it would be as so many people joined in to help. Everyone was loving the day and loving the challenge.  Some were professional boxers who were up for a challenge and some were just family and friends who were loving the boxing!

Aspire has always been a major part of my life. The facilities at the Aspire Leisure Centre go above and beyond any other place I can use to independently work out and keep fit.

The services Aspire offers to those who need independent living and independent access to work, are like no other. Aspire is special to me as it emphasises independence for those who lack it. If I don’t have independence to live my life, it makes me feel ‘disabled’, whereas when I can do everything I need to on my own, I feel empowered to live my life the way I want to. 

We raised just over £5,000 including gift aid.  A massive thank you to Chris and Andreas for helping put the day together and raising awareness of Aspire and the need to include everyBODY so everyone always feels a part of the community and feels comfortable whichever gym they choose to use. 

Fundraiser stories

How we help