Gym adds training space
Community Fitness Kerikeri is expanding to include a new purpose built training space.
The new addition to the centre will allow FreeFit classes on Friday nights which will be open to anyone with health or weight related issues.
Centre Manager Debbie Klinac says the new space will allow the rest of the gym to be decluttered for its 1044 members.
Kids fitness classes, boxing and kickboxing will also be run in the area.
The non-profit community facility also sponsors around 15 people a year into a free, fully supervised training programme.
Referrals for the programme come from schools, police, Northland DHB and through local GPs via a green prescription (those with diabetes, heart problems and other serious conditions).
Kiri Richardson has been training at the gym for 10 months under the sponsorship scheme and has experienced major changes in her life as a result.
Nominated by her doctor, she was initially too scared to go but has lost a lot of weight as well as lowering her blood pressure and cholesterol levels, she says.
A neurological disorder that affects her balance has also been improved from regular exercise.
‘‘I mainly came for my daughter.
‘‘I want to be here for her as she grows up.
‘‘I’m feeling a lot better within myself and it has helped my depression.’’
The staff at the centre don’t judge anyone, are really positive and inspire you, Richardson says.
‘‘I enjoy exercising now and can see the benefits.
‘‘There are positives sweating.’’
Klinac says a panel approves the sponsorships.
Initially a three month mem- to bership is offered to the recipient and if they have valued that time a twelve month membership is gifted to them, Klinac says.
The space to expand next door to the existing facility came about after United Video closed its doors after 17 years in operation.
Klinac says she felt sorry for the owners of the business, but after saving for a number of years they were able to take over the lease and upgrade it to a fitness facility.