If finding motivation to get active in 2026 is a struggle, partaking in a charity challenge is sure to get you on your feet.
While the start of January brings with it a certain drive to start on the right foot — whether for fitness, self-improvement or productivity — this can dwindle throughout the month. Committing to a charity challenge will keep you accountable, as well as raising much-needed funds for good causes.
With so many challenges out there, there’s something suitable for people of all fitness levels.
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Neuroblastoma UK’s 26 Miles in January
It’s not too late to take on Neuroblastoma UK’s 26 Miles in January challenge. Whether you complete it in one marathon effort or 26 mile-long walks, jogs or runs, you’ll be getting fit at the same time as raising money to help fund vital research into children’s cancer.
Neuroblastoma UK asks participants to raise a minimum of £150 in sponsorship and in return they’ll receive a certificate to celebrate your success.
London Winter Walk 2026
Kick-start your new fitness regime by participating in the London Winter Walk 2026. Taking place in the capital on 24 and 25 of January, there’s full marathon, half marathon and 10k options, plus a family fun run, offering achievable goals for people of all fitness levels. Starting and finishing at the world-famous Kia Oval cricket ground, all routes take in highlights of the Thames and many of London’s most well-known landmarks.
With rest stops available for refuelling and hot food at the finish, the Winter Walk is a fun, sociable event to get you moving throughout January.
The Brain Tumour Charity’s Challenge 88
The Brain Tumour Charity’s newest fundraising event, Challenge 88, is one of the most flexible around. Whether you choose to do star jumps, press-ups, sit-ups or something else entirely, participants will complete 88 exercises a day throughout January to support the 88,000 people living with a brain tumour in the UK.
The Brain Tumour Charity is asking everyone who takes part to set-up a Facebook fundraiser, join the Challenge 88 Facebook group and pledge to raise £100 or more. In return, you’ll receive a free T-shirt to raise awareness of the cause, plus a commemorative medal when you’ve reached your fundraising target.
Find out more at thebraintumourcharity.org
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Mind Over Mountains x RED January
Now in its 10th year, RED January is a new year challenge focusing on physical and emotional wellbeing. Founded by Hannah Beecham MBE in 2016, this nationwide movement is based on research that demonstrates a positive link between regular physical activity and mental health.
Originally a running challenge, RED January now invites its participants to get moving daily in any way that makes them feel good. More than half of those who committed to the challenge report a significant improvement in happiness and a reduction in anxiety during the month. RED Together’s official charity partner is Mind Over Mountains, which offers professional mental fitness support by bringing together walking in nature, mindfulness and time with experienced wellbeing coaches and counsellors.
Sign up at join.redjanuary.com
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Crohn’s and Colitis UK’s Big Winter Workout
For the fourth year running, Crohn’s and Colitis UK is inviting participants to do 31 minutes of physical activity for the 31 days of January. Any activity counts, including cycling, yoga, netball and jogging.
You’ll receive a free long-sleeve tech top, and the charity is offering additional incentives such as a Big Winter Workout medal and fleece to those who raise more than £150 and £500 respectively.
Discover at crohnsandcolitis.org.uk
Feature image: Pexels
