adminMidlands Correspondent
THE National Federation of Zimbabwe Bodybuilding and Fitness (NFZBF) has set up functional structures in six of the country’s 10 provinces in a move aimed at encouraging more people to take up the sport. Bodybuilding has been in the doldrums since 2008 due to the unfavourable economic environment, but the sport has been on a rebound since 2013.
Structures have already been put in place in Bulawayo led by John Mhangwa. Midlands, Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West and Harare have also set up structures to popularise the sport.
NFZBF spokesperson Quiet Shingai said as part of their efforts to increase the number of body builders and fitness enthusiasts that take part in national events, provinces would be asked to hold at least two shows per year starting from 2016. “As a federation we realised that there is need to improve competitiveness at our national tournaments because we have the same people competing over and over again,” said Shingai.
“Our thrust now is to encourage youngsters to come to the fore. The provincial structures will be tasked with setting up district committees and starting from next year, each province will be required to hold at least two competitions.”
Shingai said competitions in provinces would give youngsters confidence through the required exposure needed before they can take part in national tournaments.
The NFZBF also held a bodybuilding and fitness physique seminar in Harare aimed at educating athletes on the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB). The local body became an affiliate of the world governing body recently.
Online Reporter