In a bold and inspiring new campaign, Army Reservist, cadet instructor, and multiple Guinness World Record hopeful Mark Bailey has launched the Cadet Burpee Challenge—a nationwide competition designed to unite cadets across the UK and raise vital funds for the Combined Cadet Force Association (CCFA).
What Is the Cadet Burpee Challenge?
The Cadet Burpee Challenge is a high-energy, one-minute fitness fundraiser that brings together Army, Air, and Sea sections of Combined Cadet Force (CCF) units from all corners of the UK. Each cadet pushes themselves to complete as many burpees as possible in just 60 seconds, collecting sponsorships from friends, family, and supporters—all in aid of the CCFA.
But this challenge is about far more than just burpees. It’s about everything they represent:
- Resilience
- Leadership
- Teamwork
- Service
At its core, the challenge reflects the very values the CCF instils in young people. It’s a celebration of the physical and mental grit cadets build through service—and a way to give back to a charity that has given so much to them.
The Inspiration Behind the Movement
This initiative was born out of Mark Bailey’s personal mission to attempt four official Guinness World Records:
- Most Burpees in 1 Minute
- Most Burpees in 3 Minutes
- Most Chest-to-Floor Push-Up Burpees in 1 Minute
- Fastest 1 Mile of Burpee Broad Jumps
“I wanted these world-record attempts to inspire something more significant,” says Mark. “Something that gave back to cadets across the country. That’s where the Cadet Burpee Challenge came from—a chance for every unit to get involved, raise money for a cause that directly supports them, and prove what cadets are really made of.”
How It Works
Joining the Cadet Burpee Challenge is simple:
✔️ Each cadet completes as many burpees as they can in one minute
✔️ Cadets are sponsored by friends, family, and supporters
✔️ Mark will track individual and team totals across the country
To take part:
- Fill in the Sponsor Form
- Make your donation via JustGiving
Deadline: All burpee counts, photos/videos, and donations must be submitted by 30th November 2025 to be eligible for national recognition.
National Awards
To keep things competitive and rewarding, Mark has announced the following award categories:
🏅 Top Individual Cadet – Most burpees
💰 Top Individual Fundraiser – Most money raised
🏆 Best Overall Unit – Highest combined burpees + donations
🌍 Top Army, Air & Sea Cadet Units – Best in each section
Why It Matters
Cadet units across the UK are facing increased funding challenges. The CCFA plays a crucial role in ensuring young people from all backgrounds can access the life-changing experiences the CCF offers—from adventure training and fieldcraft camps to leadership and personal development programmes.
The Cadet Burpee Challenge is more than a fundraiser. It’s a national moment of unity—a way to support future leaders, challenge ourselves, and prove the power of the cadet community when it rallies around a shared mission.
Get Involved
🧭 Cadets – Bring your best. Push your limits.
💪 Supporters – Sponsor your local cadets and help fuel their success.
🎖️ Instructors – Encourage participation and lead from the front.
Every rep. Every pound. Every cadet. One goal.
One minute. Maximum effort. One big difference.
