But, a group of Muswellbrook Fire and Rescue crew members are hoping to challenge themselves while helping save lives – in a different way.

On October 14, the group will push themselves to the limit all for a good cause in the Firefighters Climb for MND.

Participants climb the 1504 stairs (98 floors) of the Sydney Tower Eye, raising money and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease patients.

Muswellbrook’s Lisa Morgan, Luke Simpson, James Markham and Justin Melia have begun training for the physically demanding event in spring.

Not only will they aim to climb the course in their best time – they will also complete the challenge with their Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus (CABA) equipment.

Ms Morgan said the group of four was hoping to recruit a few more to join in with them on the day.

“We’ve all started training,” she said.

“It’s an amazing cause and they need to find a cure.

“Over the last two years they’ve raised over $750,000.

“This year alone they’re aiming for 1 million.

“It’s definitely as tough in there mentally as it is physical – it’s a head game definitely when you get in the tower.”

It isn’t just fundraising total that is growing each year.

Mr Markham said the overall number of participants had doubled on last year’s figure.

“It also gives us self-motivation to keep fit,” he said.

“There have also been a fair few community members affected by Motor Neurone Disease as well.”

Mr Simpson said fellow entrants in the 2016 climb encouraged him along the way, even those he had never met.

“Everyone helps everyone,” he said.

“I was sitting down there for a bit, for a few minutes, thinking I was going to die.

“Another firefighter came past and sat down next to me, and he had some of my water, and then I saw him sitting down another couple of flights up, so I sat.

“So it’s a team effort; no matter what background you’re from.”

For more information about the group’s efforts, or to donate, visit www.firiesclimb.gofundraise.com.au/page/lisamorgan2