Great plans with Fitness Centre now open in Mbekweni
2010-09-09
LAST week the Mbekweni Fitness Centre under the ownership of well-known rugby player, Eugene Maqwelana, opened its doors in Mbekweni next to the pavillion of the Mbekweni sports fields. Maqwelana obtained the building from Drakenstein Municipality and Virgin Active fit the centre with equipment. Virgin Active will also play a role in the initial management of the centre, while Van der Sluys Building Contractors and Van der Sluys Properties assisted with the upgrading of the building. Maqwelana, who plays prop for the Lions Super 14 team, believes that opening a gym within the black community will educate people and will also improve their conditioning. “We will also encourage and develop programmes for children who have potential within the sporting codes like rugby, soccer and athletics,” he said. “A child who has the talent and potential for athletics cannot further this potential beyond school level due to the lack of equipment, coaching and a support system and this is where the gym will be beneficial to the community. “With the right support system, equipment and professional help this child will then reach his or her full potential within the sporting code of choice,” he added. “Once the gym has been established, members will have to contribute a monthly fee to sustain the running and up-keep of the gym (R100). “It is important to understanding that our contribution is for social development and education towards nutrition and body conditioning so that we can save lives and build a healthy community. “Through my experiences in sport I would like to contribute towards the next generation to have a better understanding of what is waiting for them in the professional system, and not go through my mishaps because of the lack of education. “Sport and education need to go hand in hand for it to be utilised in a proper partnership that will secure optimal yet successful transformation aimed at developing sport, in particular rugby. “This can be achieved through multi-dimensional transformation. This transformation should be more than just a quota, but one that includes education, management of professional and up and coming players, skills development, like communication, media relations, life skills and legal issues,” he said. “Through my experience in professional rugby I have discovered that there is a need for fitness education within the black community. “I have done some research that 60% to 70% people in the black communities are diagnosed with high-blood pressure, diabetes and over-weight,” he added. He can be reached on 082-620-9380 for inquiries.
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