Despite winter’s icy mornings, the City of Johannesburg Region A sport and recreation department is proving that healthy living does not take a seasonal break.

Close to 70 residents gathered at Rabie Ridge Community Hall on July 11 for the department’s healthy lifestyle aerobics programme, with the session moving indoors for the first time to protect participants from the cold while keeping them active.

Read more: Rabie Ridge residents beat the winter blues with aerobics session

The free programme, led by experienced local instructors including Selby Jimmy Mashao and Mavis Mava, continues to encourage residents across Region A to adopt healthier lifestyles through regular physical activity.

Region A sport and recreation department’s sports officer Mmakwena Malete said the venue change was made to ensure participants remained comfortable despite the cold weather.

“Today, we are here at Rabie Ridge Hall. We are doing aerobics, which we usually do bi-weekly. We are rotating, and today, because of a cold morning, we decided to bring it to the hall, so that people can be warm inside.”

She said the session attracted an estimated 67 participants, reflecting the growing popularity of the programme.

Also read: Rabie Ridge stadium hosts lively community aerobics boot cam

“We are trying by all means. They say summer bodies are made in winter, so we are trying to push the programme even during the winter season, so [residents] are there and enjoying themselves.”

Malete said the initiative forms part of the city’s efforts to promote healthier communities, while helping residents reduce the risk of lifestyle-related illnesses, such as cardiovascular diseases.

“We are trying to push a healthy lifestyle and trying to minimise the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It’s a free entry. Everyone is welcome to join us.”

To make participation easier, the department keeps residents informed through a dedicated WhatsApp group, where upcoming venues and dates are shared. As participation continues to grow, the programme is expanding to more venues across Region A.

Riverside Mall, Diepsloot Youth Centre, and Kaalfontein Primary have also been included in the calendar. The next aerobics sessions are scheduled for Diepsloot Youth Centre on July 25, Rabie Ridge Stadium on August 8, and Lord Khanyile Hall on August 29.

Residents of all ages are encouraged to attend the free sessions and take advantage of the opportunity to improve their health while connecting with fellow community members.

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