The SAPS has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Virgin Active and Planet Fitness to help keep its officers physically fit and healthy.

The national police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, signed the MOU at a ceremony held at the Tshwane Police Academy in Pretoria on November 1.

The partnership will allow SAPS members to use the facilities at the gyms at a discount of 20% on a monthly gym membership fee.

Speaking at the event, Masemola described this as an exciting historical moment and said the partnership with and support from the two fitness companies would go a long way towards the health and wellness of the members.

“A healthy body leads to a healthy mind and improves psychological and mental stability. Our members operate in a highly stressful environment, so it’s vital they have an environment where they can relieve much of the stress and, at the same time, build their bodies to keep them healthy so that we don’t put pressure on the SAPS medical scheme.”

Masemola encouraged all members to take advantage of this opportunity.