Join the Edenvale Lions Basketball Academy for hiking adventure
“There are people who want to exercise, go for walks, and enjoy nature, but they don’t always have someone to do it with."
In a bid to promote fitness, community engagement, and an appreciation for nature, the Edenvale Lions Basketball Academy (ELBA) has extended its hiking initiative beyond the basketball team, inviting community members to join their regular outdoor excursions.
The initiative, which has been running since 2020, initially began as a team-building exercise for basketball players.
However, as founder and head coach Edson Makavan explained, it has evolved into a broader wellness effort.
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“There are people who want to exercise, go for walks, and enjoy nature, but they don’t always have someone to do it with. This is an opportunity for them to come together and experience the benefits of hiking.
“Scientifically, walking is one of the best ways to stay fit, and when you do it in a group, you don’t even feel the distance. It becomes a social and enjoyable activity,” stated Makavan.
ELBA has throughout the years organised hikes at several scenic locations, including the Heidelberg Suikerbosrand, Pretoria Nature Reserve, Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, and other well-known trails in and around Johannesburg.
They are now focusing on the local trail the Modderfontein Nature Reserve and are urging the community to get involved.
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Joining the club on their latest excursion was ward councillor Heather Hart.
“Edson is doing this as a team-building exercise, but it’s also about fitness and getting people out to see nature.
“We spend so much time in the suburbs that we forget we have beautiful nature reserves just minutes away,” said Hart.
Hart acknowledged some challenges, particularly the steep cost of entry to certain trails, which she believes should be more accessible.
“It’s R45 for men and boys, and R35 for women and girls, which I feel is quite high. I would love to see a community effort to clean up the trails in exchange for free access,” she added.
At the moment the hikes will take place every second Sunday of the month.
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The hikes are not just about fitness; they are about bringing people together, creating a sense of safety, and encouraging families to participate.
“Many women don’t feel secure walking alone, but in a group, they feel protected,” said Makavan.
“We want to encourage parents to bring their children too. It’s a family-friendly activity.”
