Help raise money for Autism Wessex by setting yourself a challenge to Move More in May!

Whether you want to walk, run, cycle or even skip a certain amount of miles, pledge to dance for five minutes each day, or complete a minimum number of laps in the pool, we are encouraging you to Move More in May and raise money for Autism Wessex.

Not only does physical activity help autistic people to burn off energy, regulate their emotions and improve their fine and gross motor skills, it also has a profoundly positive impact on all our mental health.

Exercise can help to relieve stress, improve sleep and reduce depression, anxiety and ADHD, which are all common coexisting conditions in people living with autism.

How can I take part?

The great thing about the Move More in May challenge is that you can do anything you like as long as it gets you moving more!

Move More in May is open to everyone, whatever your age or ability, whether you choose to run 5k every day, start skipping on the weekend or do 50 dumbbell curls each week anyone can get involved!

Simply set a challenge that is right for you, create a fundraising page via Just Giving or Facebook, and ask your friends and family to sponsor you and donate.

Any donations, no matter how big or small, will make a huge difference and will go towards supporting autistic people and their families. The money you raise could help finish crucial projects like the new Playground at Portfield School, organise days out for our adult service users, or purchase items that help autistic people to develop their skills and strengths.

Here are some ideas to help you get started:

Run or jog outdoors and set yourself a distance target

Cycle or swim

Dance the nights away!

Star jumps, squats or skipping

Take the stairs instead of the lift

Walk when you talk

Park further away from home or work

Bounce on the trampoline

Set a steps goal for each day or week

Play football with your friends

Workout through house work

Why not get your family, friends or colleagues involved and have a competition to see who can move the most in May! However, you decide to move share your progress with us by tagging Autism Wessex in your posts on social media, or send us updates by emailing the team.

On your marks... get set... Move More in May!