Fun, intense and interactive are some of the words used to describe what you can expect when you join one of the five aerobics clubs in and around Estcourt.

SEE: WATCH: Vibrant aero-marathon gets underway

Since the launch of Skhandimpilo Club at Lambert Park five years ago, the movement has been growing, bolstered by people who are keen to start living a healthier lifestyle.

One of the founders, Themba Shabalala, said that the aerobics clubs were started after an initiative by the Department of Sport & Recreation.

“The department established a healthy lifestyle programme because it wanted people to adopt a healthier way of living. That is why, in some areas, outdoors gyms have also been erected,” said Mr Shabalala.

Together with a handful of founding members, Mr Shabalala started Skhandimpilo Club. With just eight members, the club forged ahead and soon membership grew via word-of-mouth, articles in the Estcourt News and social media.
Mr Shabalala was soon inundated with calls to start aerobics clubs in other areas too.

“When people heard about the clubs, they wanted assistance to start their own clubs. We started clubs in Wembezi, Ntabamhlophe and Colita. All we needed was a venue and music; the rest was up to the members who joined,” explained Mr Shabalala.

SEE: Aerobics club launched in Colita

Members from each club then stepped up and led the way, taking over the classes – so Mr Shabalala and his team were free to assist in other areas.

There are currently five aerobics clubs that operate in Ntabamhlophe, Wembezi, Lambert Park, Colita and the newest addition in eMabhalononi, with a combined membership of about 200. Joining an aerobics class is simple.

“Anyone can join us by attending a class in an area close to you. The first requirement is to have a positive mind-set. Most of our members aim to lose weight, but our goal is that our members lead a healthy lifestyle. We also encourage members to discard their old habits of an unhealthy diet. You can exercise as much as you want, but if your diet is incorrect, you will not see a difference after putting in all the hard work,” said Mr Shabalala.

Aerobics clubs are looking forward to getting back on track as the country moves to level 2 of the lockdown.

“To those who are interested or those who were denied during the lockdown, we will be starting soon. Summer is here and we need to keep pushing to be healthy and active,” added Mr Shabalala.

In conclusion, he thanked the Department of Sport & Recreation for supporting the aerobics classes and assisting with purchasing equipment.

NOw READ: GALLERY:Taking a fitness journey with an aero-marathon

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