FACE 2 FACE
/ SHONA BELL with
Q Tell us about your work.
AA: What does “work” mean? For many it’s a job, and not everyone enjoys their “job”. If it means what do I keep busy with - most times it makes money and sometimes not… I do things I love and what challenges me. The fitness businesses is an important one. It’s a passion and hobby and “work”.
Q: How and where did it all start?
A: 17 years ago I was introduced to the Curves franchise and as I was on my own lifestyle change into a more health focused lifestyle, I was sold. Within three years I’d opened five franchises in SA and Botswana. So began my journey into the business of health & fitness. This year a close friend, Ian Pinder bought Warfit and asked me to be the local managing partner as he said “you know the game”. So we are relaunching the business under a new brand to grow into a facility which is for anyone who is interested in a healthy lifestyle: No Limits Fitness at the Small Boat Harbour.
Q: Best moment?
A: There are many, too many. Having members thank you for changing their lives, for giving them hope, for making them “feel worthy” have been my highlights.
Q: Low point (and how you recovered).
A: Having to close our gym doors to members when they need us the most. “Lockdown 2020”. Health and fitness should have been a priority and many members suffered due to lockdown. So what did I do:
I built an online platform, starting @home workouts and access to meal plans, motivation, music etc. I kept members moving and they supported us throughout the lockdown.
Q: Down time: how do you unwind?
A: Swim - Bike - Run. over and over.
Q: A song, mantra or phrase that sums up the way you see the world…
A: “What you’re seeing now is residual evidence of your past thoughts. Stay the course.”
Q: Something South African to celebrate?
A: Everything… sun (our weather), beaches, the people, Ubuntu, spekboom & Steri Stumpie.
Q: One thing SA needs to fix?
A: Fix implies broken… many things need ‘a little help’, even our attitudes. WE are SA, we must be the change.
Q: Top of your recommendations for visitors to Ndlambe and the Sunshine Coast?
A: Walk the beaches, hike some trails, workout at No Limits Fitness, then have a coffee at MmCoffeeLab inside the No Limits Café.
Q: Top of your bucket list?
A: Currently it’s to cycle the Dragon’s Spine. Beit Bridge to Cape Town.
Q: Favourite book?
A: The Overstory by Richard Powers is one of many favourites.
Q: Who is your hero, and why?
A: Too many heroes to name. From my folks who put up with me for over 56 years to friends in Ekuphumleni who are leading by enabling, against all odds, to keep kids away from drink and drugs.