By: Amanda Mqadi

Residents from Newlands West Township, north of Durban, have showed warm approval for the free outdoor gym built in their local park.

Outdoor gyms have been built in and around Durban and are said to be another way of tackling obesity and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Tozi Mthethwa, Head of Communications at the eThekwini Municipality, said that they are introducing programmes that will cater for people who can’t afford gym fees.
“The city wants to improve the quality of life for all its citizens and to encourage fitness by assisting those who can’t afford gym membership fees,” Mthethwa said.
The free-for-all gym offers classes from 6pm until late and these classes are taken up by volunteering trainers. With no membership fees needed to join and attend classes the gym manages to draw people from all age groups.

Mzuzu Mngadi, gym trainer and instructor, said that fitness is important in everyone’s daily life.

“Ever since we got this recreational fitness gym in our community, we can see there’s a rise of fitness in our elders and our youth. It has greatly impacted our lives in a positive manner,” said Mngadi.
Gym regulars said Mngadi keeps them motivated and pushing to reach their goals of feeling and
looking sexy.

“I’m overweight and I easily get tired but Mzuh (Mngadi), makes sure that I persevere no matter how hard it gets, for that I am thankful,” said  Nokulunga Sibiya.

Mngadi further said that physical activities are essential for improving overall health, sustaining fitness and preventing diseases such as obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

“As a person that was diagnosed with anemia for four years, my life has really taken a dramatic change ever since I have found fitness. I am happier and more confidence. The youth should get involved in fitness because it leads to a rise in their confidence levels,” said Mngadi.

Nokuthula Thango, one of the gym members, said that this initiative has helped her in reaching her ideal body size.

“Since I have started being active, it has helped me tremendously in many ways. I was big before, weighing 95 kg’s. I now weigh 76 kg’s, which is unbelievable. I would encourage everyone in the community to come join the gym,” Thango said.