Have you ever wondered why marathons usually attract global coverage?
There are a few reasons: people like watching large events from the comfort of their homes, and, of course, seeing so many people take part in something physically arduous can be inspiring.
Scale up a marathon to something a bit more hardcore, such as a triathlon or a Mudder challenge, and you will see pretty much the same thing. People feel enthralled by watching people engage in physically enduring activities. But why?
Here, you will be walked through the psychological effects of extreme sports when linked to fundraising and will see how taking part in something physically tough can help others do so, too.
Showcases Determination
Even if people are watching a marathon, every runner showcases determination. Determination to train, take care of themselves, and for running for a cause like www.macmillan.org.uk. This can have an immense impact on onlookers who may then feel inspired to take part in a marathon themselves or to engage in fundraising activities for the charities that they see being represented in extreme sports or marathons.
Raises Awareness of Charities
Of course, if you have ever watched a marathon/extreme sports fundraiser and been surprised at a charity existing, you are not the first person. Many people are unaware of the number of smaller charities out there; people taking part in extreme sports whilst wearing a t-shirt of the charity they are running for can encourage onlookers to research that charity and potentially donate or fundraise for it in the future.
Creates Community
Hundreds of thousands of people turn out to watch marathons, and lots will also attend smaller charity events, especially if sports are involved. This can create a sense of togetherness that cannot be found in many other places and may inspire local businesses and schools to donate to charities or fundraise for them.
Power of Altruism
Yes, it is fun to watch people crawling through mud whilst pulling a tyre for charity. However, this seemingly silly and extreme act can showcase or remind people that such personal achievements can be aimed at a larger purpose, such as bringing awareness or donations to a charity. That is nothing short of inspiring. Again, seeing people who have made/are making physical and emotional sacrifices for a cause can prompt compassion in onlookers, encouraging them to donate more money.
Encourages Healthier Lifestyles
People who take part in extreme sports for charity fundraising are likely to be in pretty good physical health, especially if they are engaged in the aforementioned crawling through mud whilst pulling a tyre!
For those in the community, this can encourage them to look at their own health and adopt healthier lifestyle choices. This could be taking part in a marathon or physical activity in the future to raise money for their chosen charity, or it could simply be to improve their own physical and mental health. You can’t really put a price on that, as it can be truly transformative.
Author Bio
Lizzie Reynell-O’Brien graduated with an MSc in clinical psychology from Goldsmiths University and started her small writing company, Just Write, in 2018, writing solely about mental health diagnostics in the NHS. She is passionate about writing as an art form, and when she’s not typing, you will find her walking her two rescue Jack Russells or in her garden planting wildflowers.
