Warwick transplant athlete looking to inspire residents to join his daily H.I.T activity

The session consists of three exercises of 20 seconds with no rest in between each one
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A cancer survivor and transplant athlete from Warwick is looking to inspire residents to join his daily High Intensity Training (H.I.T) activity.

Simon Perkin, was diagnosed with blood cancer in 1991 at the age of 26 and after years of treatment and his deteriorating health, was left with no alternative but to have a bone marrow transplant in July 2012, when a donor match was found.

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Since the operation, Simon’s health has steadily improved and he has gone on to take part in many competitions including the World Transplant Games.

Simon Perkin running for Team GB and NI at the World Transplant Games in Malaga. Photo suppliedSimon Perkin running for Team GB and NI at the World Transplant Games in Malaga. Photo supplied
Simon Perkin running for Team GB and NI at the World Transplant Games in Malaga. Photo supplied

Simon has been hosting a daily one minute activity, consisting of three exercises of 20 seconds with no rest in between each activity and wants other to join in.

Simon said: "Start with 20 seconds tuck jumps, then 20 seconds jumping lunges and finish with 20 seconds burpees, with a jump, overhead clap and press up daily.

"It is an amazingly effective daily habit to raise the heartbeat, is completely free and can be done safely at home, during and beyond lockdown or when out exercising safely.

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"It is important to warm up properly and not attempt activity if carrying the slightest niggle or injury. If in any doubt, seek the opinion of your GP or health consultant before starting any exercise programme."

Simon Perkin with his wife Jane and son Ed. Photo supplied.Simon Perkin with his wife Jane and son Ed. Photo supplied.
Simon Perkin with his wife Jane and son Ed. Photo supplied.

Talking about the inspiration behind his activity, Simon said: "I'm a business and well-being consultant, passionate about sport and have been helping business owners and sports leaders for over 30 years.

"My passion was heightened only last week, when I was invited to attend a health professionals, webinar. The Agenda was 'Why Sport?' and 'Decreasing Activity Levels' ?

"Key speakers were Head of Safeguarding for NHS, Kenny Gibson, Head of Health, Sport England, Suzanne Gardner and Head of Health for Swim England, Elaine McNish.

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"The main shocking message given by all three speakers was their massive concern around mental health during this lockdown and how they are desperately seeking ways to get our nation moving again, post Lockdown, given that life will be very different because of social distancing restrictions."

To do his bit to help Simon is encouraging people to join his daily exercise.

"Do my one minute BIG H.I.T activity. Invite and tag friends and family to do same, especially those they haven't spoken to recently and if they are concerned about their health and well-being.

"They can load their video or photo using #StayInWorkOut and tag me in on social media, so I can support, wherever possible. Repeat daily.

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"With loneliness, self harm and feeling of isolation at an all time peak, it is important we stay stronger together.

"Each day, a different sport will be featured via me wearing a different kit but we will do exactly the same one minute BIG HIT activity.

"Participants can choose what to wear and do what feels right for them. This is all about fun, totally inclusive and encouraging active participation. Everyone can do this, completely free safely at home or safely when exercising with social distancing and it will help them feel amazing, taking just 60 seconds."

On May 10 Simon will be taking part in a special work out.

"May 10 is our son, Ed's 20th birthday. This will be a very special day because I just would not have thought it possible back in 2011 when I was on the waiting list, desperately seeking a possible match for a bone marrow transplant to save my life.

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"I will be wearing an Anthony Nolan (the charity that saved my life when I had Blood Cancer) running vest, supporting the activity of 'running and jogging', completing my one minute BIG HIT daily activity.

"I'm hoping my wife, Jane, and our son can join me with this activity."

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