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Runesu Gwidi Masvingo Correspondent
Since time immemorial, most people have relied on medication to deal with ailments, especially chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Changes in the economy, which have resulted in the cost of drugs and medical service soaring to unaffordable levels, have seen people increasingly exploring other options.
One of these is physical fitness, which is proving to be an equally perfect antidote for most common health problems.
Masvingo has not been an exception, with many people flocking to different fitness centres.
One particular facility, the Masvingo Fitness Training Centre, has been gaining popularity due to testimonies from clients who have achieved their goals.
The fitness centre, which is situated at the CSC complex and offers aerobics classes, has become a “Mecca” for fitness enthusiasts looking to shed off some pounds or tonne of their bodies since it opened its doors to the public in January this year.
It is run by renowned fitness trainer and Masvingo provincial technical director of the Japan Karate Association (JKA) Sensei Douglas Machingauta, who is credited for training Zimbabwe World Boxing Council Welterweight champion, Charles Manyuchi.
“We are not selective, we cater for all age-groups,” he said in an interview. “What most of our clients have discovered is that they do not necessarily require medication for their ailments. Many people, including a local teacher Mr Israel Mahachi who was suffering from stroke, recovered through physical fitness sessions at this centre.”
The facility is also working closely with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education in promoting physical fitness in schools as a stand-alone discipline in line with the new curriculum. Machingauta is training a class of 60 primary school children drawn from across Masvingo city and 25 adults.
“We train all people, whether one is living with disabilities or able-bodied,” he said. “Our training is in line with Government’s Education Design 5.0 which emphasises inclusivity.”
Another success story is that of 11 year-old Moreblessing Daka from Mucheke suburb.
Moreblessing was cured of stroke after undergoing fitness training for two years at the centre.
“I am now physically fit after my parents enrolled me at this centre,” said Daka.
Patron Mapurisa, who is physically challenged, claims that he was cured of his breathing complications after receiving training for three months at the centre.
“I am no longer struggling to breathe,” he said. “I am now healed. I would like to invite fellow colleagues living with various disabilities to attend training sessions at this centre.”
Dorothy Chikaka (40) of Target Kopje suburb in the city was full of praise for Machingauta and the job he is doing at the fitness centre. She at one time battled cramps in her stomach after a Caesarean delivery.
Chikaka said the nagging cramp was now a thing of the past after she enrolled at Masvingo Fitness Centre.
Online Reporter