Using The Gym For Fundraising: With Emma Millard

When people think about fundraising challenges, they often picture marathons, skydives, or long-distance cycling events. But what if one of the most powerful fundraising spaces is somewhere very familiar, your local gym? In this Sapphire Running Zone podcast, fundraiser Emma Millard shared how she turned gym-based endurance challenges into impactful fundraising campaigns, supporting mental health services working for Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind. Her story is not just inspiring, it’s a practical blueprint for anyone looking to do something different.

have a listen to the podcast here

Rethinking Fundraising: Why the Gym Works

Emma’s journey into fundraising was rooted in lived experience. After working directly with individuals accessing mental health services, she transitioned into fundraising to support those same services from another angle. But she didn’t want to just ask people to fundraise, she wanted to experience it herself. That mindset led her to the gym. Unlike traditional events, gym challenges offer:

• A built-in audience (members coming and going)

• Minimal costs

• Flexible formats

• Opportunities for creativity and engagement

  
  

As Emma discovered, they can be just as demanding, and rewarding, as any marathon.

Challenge #1: The 36 Hour Gym Marathon

Emma’s first major event was a 36-hour non-stop gym challenge, completed as part of a team. Every hour brought a new activity, from treadmill runs to yoga sessions, and even salsa dancing at 3 a.m. The real magic wasn’t just in the endurance, it was in the inclusivity. Participants of all fitness levels joined in, proving that you don’t need elite athletic ability to take on a meaningful challenge.

“You don’t have to be a certain elitist level of fitness… if you believe you can do it, you normally can push yourself past that level.”

The event raised around £1,000 and demonstrated the power of community-driven fundraising.

Challenge #2: 12 Hours on the Stairmaster

Emma’s second challenge was more personal and arguably more intense: 12 hours non-stop on a Stairmaster. This time, she added a clever twist: interactive fundraising. Supporters could:

• Donate for her to take a break

• Pay to choose the music

• Even control the machine’s intensity

  
  

This turned passive spectators into active participants.

“People really like that… it feels a lot more personable, and they’re part of that journey with you.”

The result? nearly £800 raised and, more importantly, funding that directly contributed to a child’s medical treatment.

The Secret Ingredient: Storytelling

Across both challenges, one theme stood out; story matters. Emma emphasized that people don’t just donate to effort; they donate to purpose. Sharing the “why” behind a challenge transforms it from a physical feat into a meaningful cause.

“It’s important to share that story with people… it makes it more engaging.”

Whether through social media, live updates, or conversations in the gym, storytelling kept supporters connected and invested.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Fundraisers

Emma’s experience offers a clear roadmap for anyone considering a gym-based fundraiser:

1. Start with a Conversation

Speak to your gym manager. They’re often more supportive than you expect and can help with logistics and safety.

2. Build Engagement into the Challenge

Add mini-challenges or donation-based interactions to keep people involved.

3. Use Social Media Strategically

Platforms like LinkedIn can be surprisingly powerful for reaching new audiences and sponsors.

4. Capture the Journey

Photos, videos, and live updates extend the life of your fundraiser beyond the event itself.

5. Focus on Purpose, Not Perfection

You don’t need to look like an athlete, you just need a reason that resonates.

To find out more about taking on an event for the charity head here

What’s Next?

Emma is already thinking bigger, potentially taking her gym challenges on the road, visiting multiple locations and expanding her reach. It’s a reminder that once you break the mould of traditional fundraising, the possibilities are endless. Using the gym for fundraising is a fantastic option.

Final Thoughts For Using The Gym For Fundraising

Gym-based fundraising challenges prove that you don’t need a mountain, a marathon, or a massive budget to make an impact. Sometimes, all it takes is a Stairmaster, a strong “why,” and the willingness to push beyond your limits. As Emma’s journey shows, when you combine creativity, community, and cause you can turn even the most unlikely setting into a powerful force for good.

have a listen to the podcast here