THE Shed Fitness Studio will fight depression with exercise next weekend.
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The inaugural Black Dog Fundraiser will be held at the gym on Saturday, April 18 from 6am to 6pm with the personal trainers volunteering their time.
The Black Dog Institute is dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by mood disorders through high quality translational research, clinical expertise and national education programs.
Gym owner Harry Carlon said it was a charity close to his heart.
"I struggle with depression and anxiety, as do a lot of our members," he said.
"Based on what exercise has done for me and our clients I know that it can save lives."
Former NSW Labor minister Craig Knowles is a client at The Shed Fitness Studio and a Black Dog Institute board member.
As part of the day, Mr Knowles has recorded a speech about the charity and the stigma that is often attached to depression. Community response to the fundraiser has been huge with 55 half price personal training sessions booked so far and a number of local businesses donating prizes for the silent auction.
Mr Carlon said while raising money for the Black Dog Institute was important, he wanted attendees to feel what he felt when he exercised.
"Talking publicly about my depression and anxiety isn't the most comfortable thing for me to do," he said.
"But people need to be more open about it. It's an illness and there's treatment and help available."
The day will involve 'mood enhancing' half price personal training sessions, events for the whole family and information from the Black Dog Institute on how to battle mental health issues.
"The day will probably book out so get involved and book early because all proceeds will go to the Black Dog Institute," Mr Carlon said.
Sessions cost $25 and can be booked by calling The Shed Fitness Studio on 4862 3030 or 0422 644 791.