'Hardest challenge' - Jarrow gym team on why they're throwing a million punches in 100 hours

38 Fitness Gym is home to Jarrow Boxing Club - a non-profit organisation that helps people young and old stay fit, meet new people and exercise in a safe environment.

Such is the love for the boxing club and the gym, that a number of people have thrown themselves into this remarkable challenge, including Sean Burns who sparred with a punching bag for twelve hours straight earlier this week - before returning a number of days later to put in a seven-hour stint.

Burns also livestreamed his efforts on TikTok and donated proceeds from that to the boxing club as they aim to raise £1,500 before the end of the week.

The challenge has been taken on by a number of members and staff at the gym, including Alfie Parkin, but was originally the brainchild of the gym’s fitness director Dean Crouch who told the Gazette of the great benefits that boxing can have on young people: “Boxing gives loads of good opportunities for young people to get them off the streets, help them stay active and stay healthy,” he said.

“It's a great way for them to stay focused in school and also de-stress if they're struggling with mental health or anxiety.

“So boxing is a great way for them just to channel their energy in a positive way.”

38 Fitness has members ranging from 14 years of age to the oldest member, a 90-year-old gentleman.

This week’s boxing challenge represents what can be done when a community rallies around a local project and for Dean Crouch, it is the community spirit and feeling of the gym that makes 38 Fitness somewhere that all people of every fitness level and ability can find a home at.

“The hardest part is just making that first move,” he added. “Coming in the door is always the hardest part.

“But we're a manned club so whenever there's someone in there's always a member of staff that's qualified that can give you a helping hand.

“We offer six weeks' worth of free personal training as well. So not just your typical induction, you'll get six weeks' worth of free support.

“Exercise plans, help with your nutrition, diet re-advice, supplement advice, anything you can think of.

“We have free classes. We have private sauna sessions all included. We offer sports massages on site.

“We have some great instructors, some great staff and it's just a great community feel in the place. We have huge families, families of three generations.

“So yeah, it's very different to your normal gym. We have a mixture of professional athletes right down to someone that's just starting out for the first time.

“But one thing you'll really notice in the gym is everybody talks to each other.

“Regardless of their ability, everyone's just really supportive of everyone that's in the club.

“So what I'd say is the thought of coming down is always harder than actually doing it. Just make that first step into the club, you'll be absolutely fine.”