Who are we?
We are Rise & Defy, and our mission is simple: to inspire people to rise above life's challenges, defy the odds, and emerge stronger, both physically and mentally, than ever before. To do this, we want to open a gym with a difference, a gym that supports people in both the mental and physical processes of self improvement and recovery.
Our holistic gym will offer free space for mental health charities and organizations to use, as well as providing peer support and quiet spaces for reflection. Members of these charities can enjoy two hours of free gym access each week.
When you embrace the Rise & Defy mindset, you become part of a community that uplifts and supports one another. We are more than a gym; we are a family united by the common goal of becoming our best selves. Together, we will celebrate victories, learn from setbacks, and encourage each other to keep moving forward.
We are Rise&Defy.
Why?
Our mission is to create a holistic gym that not only promotes physical fitness but also provides crucial support for men's mental health in a variety of ways.
The need for a space like ours is a pressing issue that remains unaddressed in this area. Statistics show that:
75% of suicide victims in Lincolnshire are men.
Men are less likely to access psychological therapies, such as counselling, than women, with only 36% of referrals to NHS talking therapies being for men.
Men's mental health organisations, such as The Andy Mans Club, has a huge following and membership in our area.
When you consider all three of these statistics, the picture is clear; men in our area need mental health support, and in addition to this they need an accessible way to manage their own recovery and wellness in a way they feel comfortable to do so. We believe that we can bridge this gap in support with an inclusive gym space and mental wellness centre from which men in all situations and at all levels of physical and mental fitness can thrive.
Our holistic gym will provide:
A free meeting space for men's mental health groups to use
Two hours of free gym access each week for members of these groups
Peer support and quiet spaces for reflection and connection, helping men find the power of their own mental strength
Alongside this, we will create and foster a culture of inclusivity, breaking down barriers to recovery by making sure everyone who comes through our door feels welcome and comfortable to be there, no matter where they are in their journey.
Jonny's Story
My name is Jonny, I'm a 37 year old dad of 3 and I know first hand what it's like to live with the aftermath of a major physical injury and the impact it can have on mental health. After suffering severe spinal injuries in 2020 that left me in chronic pain and unable to sleep, I was at my lowest and facing a daunting road to recovery. Part of me thought it might be easier to accept my condition as final and not even bother trying to improve things for myself. It didn't help that doctors told me I'd likely only regain 50% of my previous mobility and strength, and that the pain was likely here to stay, that I'd better just get used to it and adapt my life around it. All of this took a heavy toll on my mind and spirit. I was a hands on dad, always rough housing and play fighting with my kids, and a regular gym user before all of this happened. Now, just walking to the toilet left me in intense pain. Walking outside of the house was a no go without a wheelchair or mobility scooter. Eventually I had to make a choice: accept things as they were, or begin a long, slow road to recovery. I didn't know how it was going to happen, but I chose recovery. It was time to get back in the gym. Only this time I'd be focusing on something other than getting bigger physically: I'd be getting bigger mentally. Smaller weights, shorter workouts, but a difference in myself bigger than anything I'd ever achieved before. 
I discovered what it means to defy your circumstances, and I did it by myself which, looking back, wasn't necessary. I'd read about the mental health support groups in my area, but never found the ability to walk through the door and admit I needed help. I was the epitome of that statistic above; I was too uncomfortable with talking to get help in this way. The gym was my therapy. This is how my vision for Rise&Defy was born. I started to imagine a space that provides both the opportunity to talk and find support in others, while at the same time offering a physical outlet, a practical way to manage my own recovery. If I was lucky enough to walk pain free again, to play with my kids, to walk my dogs, to earn money for my family, I can't waste that. I intend to create my vision and support as many people as possible on their road from the bottom to better than they thought they could be. To rise above their perceived obstacles and defy every limitation in their life, in all areas. Together, we can Rise&Defy.
How we’ll spend the money raised
All contributions will help with the costs of getting Rise&Defy off the ground as a functioning, fully stocked gym with all the facilities necessary to fulfil our intention for the space. The funds raised will be allocated for purchasing brand new equipment and other start up costs such as mirrors, flooring, graphics and advertising. This is including but not limited to:
Strength Training Machines: For weightlifting, muscle building, and rehabilitation exercises.
Cardio Equipment: Treadmills, stationary bikes, and rowers to promote heart health and endurance.
Functional Training Gear: Free weights, resistance bands, and flexibility tools to accommodate various workout routines.
EQUIPMENT £50,000
We'll secure and renovate a suitable space to build our vision in. This involves:
Location Selection: Finding a building that's accessible and convenient for our targeted community.
Renovations and Upgrades: Modifying the interior to include workout areas, meeting rooms, quiet spaces, and accessibility features.
Safety and Compliance: Ensuring the facility meets all health and safety regulations, including fire safety measures and disability access.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere: Designing an environment that is both motivating for fitness enthusiasts and comforting for those seeking support.
RENNOVATIONS £15,000
Establishing Spaces for Mental Health Support:
Free Meeting Rooms: Furnishing rooms for mental health charities and organizations to conduct meetings, counselling sessions, and workshops at no cost.
Quiet Reflection Areas: Creating serene spaces within the gym where individuals can meditate, decompress, or have private conversations.
Peer Support Zones: Designing areas that encourage community interaction and peer-to-peer support, fostering a sense of belonging.
MEETING ROOMS £5,000
Initial Operational Costs
Utilities and Maintenance: Covering the costs of electricity, water, heating, and the upkeep of facilities to provide a comfortable environment.
Marketing and Outreach: Promoting our gym to reach those who can benefit most, including collaborating with local charities and communities.
ADVERTISING £3,000
THREE MONTHS RUNNING COSTS £7,000
(Please note these figures are approximate and will depend on the premises we secure and how much work it needs. Traditional business funding will be secured alongside this fundraiser if necessary)
How you can play your part
We're thrilled that you're interested in helping us on this mission to make Rise & Defy a reality. There are several impactful ways you can contribute to our cause:
Make a Pledge
By making a pledge today, you're directly fuelling the creation of a space that will transform lives. Momentum is crucial to our success, and your early support can inspire others to follow suit. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to opening our doors and making a lasting impact on our community.
Spread the Word
Amplify our message and broaden our reach! Share our project across your social media platforms, send emails to friends and family, or bring it up in conversation. Use the hashtag #RiseAndDefy to help us gain visibility. The more people who know about our mission, the greater our collective impact will be. Your voice is powerful—help us use it to champion men's mental health and fitness.
Offer Rewards
Local businesses, we need you! If you own a business or know someone who does, consider donating products or services we can offer as rewards to our supporters. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your brand while contributing to a meaningful cause. In appreciation, we'll proudly give you a shout-out, promoting your generosity to our growing community and highlighting your commitment to social responsibility.
Offer Services
If you are skilled in a trade and could help with the initial renovations and set up, we'd love to hear from you. For example, joiners, plumbers, photographers, printing companies, local media or social media influencers, floor fitters, decorators. We would welcome your help!
Fundraise for Us
Turn your passion into action! Organize your own fundraising event—be it a sponsored run, a charity bake sale, a gaming marathon, or any creative venture you can imagine. Your personal initiative not only raises funds but also spreads awareness. To get started, simply use the 'Contact Project' button at the top of our page to let us know your plans. Setting up your own fundraising page is quick and hassle-free—you don't need any bank details, just your enthusiasm and a great ideas.
By engaging in any of these actions, you're not just supporting a gym—you're becoming an integral part of a movement dedicated to empowering men to overcome adversity and prioritize their mental health. You're helping to build a community where individuals can find support, strength, and a sense of belonging.
Your participation creates a ripple effect. Every action, no matter how small it may seem, contributes to the bigger picture of transforming lives and fostering a healthier, more connected community.
Thank you for considering how you can play your part in this vital mission.