Rainy season threatens fitness group in Esselen Park

Esselen Park residents who have to exercise in a park are concerned about the lack of gym facilities in the area.

According to Sipho Mathibela, a professional personal trainer, said residents felt challenged by the idea of exercising in the rain.

Several of the residents who exercise are women who want to lose weight, be healthy and want to avoid stress.

Residents appeal to local government or any Good Samaritan to help sponsor a facility.

“Exercising is supposed to be a regular part of any resident’s life in the community. Exercise helps to keep our people busy, to stay positive and to have fun. Many people are interested in sports but lose interest because there are no proper facilities in the area,” explained Mathibela.

Mathibela added to avoid the scourge of crime, drugs and many other challenges faced in the communities, a good mental attitude was important.

“Find an activity you think is fun. You are more likely to keep with it if you choose something you like. A lot of people find it’s more fun to exercise with someone else like a friend or family member,” said Mathibela.

He said Government and business people should not only consider sponsoring football games because not everyone loves soccer.

“In our community football dominates other sporting codes and receives more support. What about other sports our residents are interested in? We would like to see other sporting codes receive support and sponsorship,” added Mathibela.

He emphasised it was unfair that residents needed to travel far to exercise while they’ve got open spaces and abandoned buildings which could be used.

“I’ve realised many people in the area love to exercise. I started to help Esselen Park residents to keep fit after they started joining my family after seeing us exercise. They joined us one by one.

“Later we were a number of people. We are still calling on other people around the area to join us for free – particularly public workers, police officials, nurses and teachers,” added Mathibela.

One of the community members, Cynthia Morema who is a mother of two, said she joined the team for a healthy lifestyle.

“Before I joined the group, I used to struggle with a sinus illness and had weight issues. I can see changes and am feeling flexible. I don’t hesitate to walk far distances,” added Morema.

These Esselen Park residents participate in aerobics, fitness and a fun run Monday to Friday from 5pm until 6.30pm in the park.

If you could offer help, contact Mathibela at 073 316 5509.