Fitness and aerobics clubs meet with metro to discuss formalising a structure
Following a successful launch of the Fit for Free Aerobics Programme three years ago, the metro now seeks to formalise fitness and aerobics clubs under one formal structure.
The Ekurhuleni metro hosted a fitness and aerobics stakeholder engagement session at the Boksburg Council Chamber on February 17.
The meeting was open to all active community aerobics clubs.
“The formal structure is aimed at providing support and guidance on clubs’ operations and activities,” said Ekurhuleni spokesperson Themba Gadebe.
“This will result in a healthier and more active community and, we believe, will go a long way in addressing lifestyle-related illnesses in our community.”
The day saw presentations made on the metro’s aerobics programme, the role of the Ekurhuleni Sport Council/Confederation and an overview of the South African Sport, Aerobics and Fitness Federation/Gauteng Sport Aerobics and Fitness Federation.
Ekurhuleni divisional head of sport and recreation Atwell Sijadu echoed Gadebe’s sentiments on the aim of the whole process.
“The aim is simple – we want to give clubs support until clubs become sustainable,” he said.
Sijadu also emphasised that this does not necessarily mean funding but that instead the metro is willing to give other forms of support, provided clubs do their bit and meet the metro halfway.
In the end, it was decided that all clubs that attended the meeting be given an opportunity to consider all the information presented on the day.
A follow-up meeting, scheduled for March 17, will be held to resume the process of instituting a way of putting a fitness and aerobics structure into place for the metro and all clubs involved. – @SabeloBoksburg
