Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
New programme aims to get youth moving
IN AN ATTEMPT to cater for all ages and keep youth inspired, the Denis Goldberg House of Hope has launched a new creative movement programme.
It is targeted at creating interest in secondary school pupils and young adults from around Hout Bay in physical activity.
“This is a new thing that we are trying at the Denis Goldberg House of Hope. We currently have fewer activities for secondary school learners and youth who have left school than for primary school age,” said director Debbie Budlender.
“We thought that they might be interested in some sort of exercise session, especially in the summer months. We know that many people can’t afford gyms.”
The sessions, voluntarily facilitated by Paula Hulley, will take place every Tuesday and will cater for individuals aged between 15 and 30.
Each afternoon class will start off with a stretching session, then will get into energetic movements to get the heart rate up and end with a cooldown.
Hulley said she’s planned sessions in a manner that will encourage and improve social skills, building friendships while improving health and fitness, “an excellent way to provide your brain and body with what you need to live a good life”.
“The class is free, we are just starting off but look forward to it growing.
“We would love you to come and join the session if you live, work or go to school in Hout Bay and are between the ages of 15 and 30,” said Hulley.
While she works in the communications industry, Hulley is also a qualified aerobics and kick-boxing instructor.
She was a competitive provincial swimmer and water polo player and taught high school water polo. And she will be juggling this voluntary task with her Camps Bay master swimming class, yoga and time with her 9-yearold daughter.
“I am excited to be part of the Denis Goldberg House of Hope team and look forward to contributing to the incredible work already on the go,” she said.