Written by: Nkosazane Dambuza

The annual June 16 Healthy Living and Fitness Day which was hosted by Que’s Fitness Club took place at the King Senzangakhona Sporting Complex in Umlazi on Friday.

Over a hundred youngsters celebrated Youth Day with intense physical training.

The event saw youth from townships such as Lamontville and Kwa-Mashu challenge their bodies in an early-morning 5km marathon.

The race was followed by Kata-Box, high-low and functional workout sessions where instructors alternated every fifteen minutes.

The final challenge was a boot camp competition consisting of teams of ten, who passionately showed off their physical and mental capabilities.

Umlazi resident, Sbahle Dladla (20), was a member of the youth that was extremely excited that Que’s Fitness Club hosted a day like this.

“I am passionate about fitness and exercising and it’s so awesome to have a place where I can train and grow both physically and mentally,” said Dladla.

Participants who excelled in each activity were awarded with medals, hampers and trophies.

The Bhekithemba Police Station showed their support by sponsoring the event and also ensured that the attendees felt safe while they were working out.

Police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Thabede said, “It is wonderful to have events that takes the young people off the streets and keeps them physically occupied so that they don’t disappear into criminal activities.”

Que’s Fitness Club, a non-governmental organization, was established in the area in 2014, and aims to create community development and influence residents in Umlazi to live a healthy lifestyle.

The June 16 Healthy Living and Fitness Day was launched in 2016 in commemoration of the youth of 1976 who’s fighting spirit gave young people today opportunities to live and thrive as South Africans.

Founder of Que’s Fitness Club, Qiniso Mavundla was quite happy with the turnout and had a sees this event growing into something massive.

“I am happy with the turnout this year because we have more people that we expected. More sponsors are expected to come on board and I expect Healthy Living and Fitness Day to be one of the biggest events in Durban.”

*Caption: Youth Day celebrations were in the form of intense physical activities at the June 16 Healthy Living and Fitness Day in Umlazi.