CHANELLE LUTCHMAN
FITNESS guru Raksha Misthry has applauded the city for promoting a healthy lifestyle by constructing outdoor gyms.
Misthry, the owner of Pushfit Gym, said the concept was brilliant as exercise helped with mental health and allowed for a more balanced lifestyle.
“I have used the outdoor gym on the Sea Point Promenade in Cape Town and would definitely use one if it was built where I live.
“It’s awesome because it helps break social barriers. In Cape Town people from different cultural backgrounds used the gym and interacted with each other.”
The fitness fanatic said that apart from regularly exercising at the gym, residents should incorporate a healthy diet into their lifestyles by eating more fresh fruit, vegetables and lean protein.
“I approach my diet with an 80-20 mindset. I eat 80% whole foods and 20% of foods that one might consider a cheat. This helps keep your sanity in check and allows for a more balanced lifestyle.”
Misthry said heart disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol was prevalent in her Indian clients.
“Coming from an Indian background, I know that every celebration involves food that is calorie dense and having the occasional curry during the week is a given. This is our culture.
“However, by combining a good exercise programme along with a balanced nutrition plan will serve the population well in leading healthier, disease free lifestyles.”
Misthry said some basic exercises that residents could do to warm up before using the equipment included squats, situps, leg raises and pull-ups.
“I suggest you keep the rep range between 12 to 15 with four sets per exercise with minimal rest in between. Off course, one can adapt this advice according to individual fitness levels.”
And to those who feel exhausted after a long day’s work and cannot bring themselves to travel to the outdoor gym, Misthry says: “It’s okay. Don’t beat yourself up about it. Have a rest and try again the next day.”