By: Mhlengi Mafu

The annual Aerobic Marathon kicked off at KwaMashu Shopping Centre on Friday, with over 200 people taking part in the epic work out.

The lack of resources from the gym didn’t stand in the way of people like 59-year-old Tom Mothobi.

“At my age I am perfectly healthy. I started aerobics in 2006, and never looked back. Every morning I start with a marathon then go to work. In the evening, at about 17:30, it’s back to gym. Most people in my age have diabetes and other diseases but I am healthy thanks to the gym,” said Mothobi.

Friday’s even started with a 5km run, and every participant received a medal. After the run, the KwaMashu Shopping Centre parking was filled with people getting ready to do Zumba, taebo, aerobics and stepping. This event featured other gyms and gym instructors from Richards Bay and Hamasdale. The aim was to encourage people to stay healthy and fit no matter which age you are in.

Syabonga Mkhize from Body Dynamics, who organised the event, said: “We have over 162 members. This is our third biggest event. We have been working out at the tennis court for about 11 years, that’s where this thing started. We have morning classes as 6:30 and evenings 17:30. This has always been a passion for me to see the community combined like this.”

The gym members don’t have any equipment at all but only their moves – but this is all going to change as the ward counsellor Dobie Dlamini told the comity that they will build an outdoor gym.

one of the trainers from Virgin Active taking it to the next level. Pictures by: Mhlengi Mafu.

“A healthy mind is in a healthy body. If we see these guys doing their thing its really motivates us as community leaders Not everyone can afford to go to the expensive gyms at town but it’s a good thing to see something like this happening in the community. We are now going to build an outdoor gym where there will be cycling and weights,” said Dlamini.

Dlamini also adding that it is a blessing to see older people at the workout sessions.