By Duncan Mlanjira
Aerobics enthusiasts, under their banner, Sweat-factory Fitness Studio, have organised a fundraising mental health awareness high octave workouts at College of Medicine in Blantyre on November 23, which is in aid of assisting Zomba Mental Hospital.
The day-long event is dubbed Aerobathon, which is an aerobic workout sequence that combines all body parts.
This is at Bingu Stadium
“It is vigorous but fun and can be conducted with a variety of music and can be done by the whole family and all age groups,” said Tamara Chafunya, one of the organizers and also trainer for the event.
She said they decided to hold this special event after noting that there is a need for mental health awareness for both men and women, especially the youth as most cases of mental stability can be treated and exercise is one such therapy.
“Even most weight problems are mostly due to mental/psychological issues,” she said. “A snap research we conducted on several members, indicated that their weight problem culminated from issues of depression, anxiety and stress.
“Most people let go of health fitness because of these factors.
Chafunya added that they are working in partnership with Sana, Amaryliss, Rab Processors, Intosports and Clickmobile.
Lots of fun
“They are directly supporting the logistics to the event but also materials like soap, sugar, tea, bedsheets, water etc, to donate to the mental facility in Zomba.
“We still appeal to all well-wishers, whether companies or individuals to step forward and assist through material or funds.”
Participants to the Aerobathon are expected to contribute a minimum of K2,000 as a fee, which is part of raising towards assisting Zomba Mental Hospital.
Chafunya said the Sweat-factory Fitness Studio was originally created to cater for women only.
“However, due to interests for workout by others, special one-on-one private sessions, nutritional advice, and group sessions such as the sweat for mental health, are conducted to include men and children.”
The club, based at the Bingu National Stadium E28 in Lilongwe, has over 200 registered members.
Sweat-factory director Mariam
Its director is Mariam Matola, who is a professional group fitness trainer, together with Mike Gelson while Chafunya an upcoming personal trainer.
For one join The Sweat-factory, the enthusiasts can visit their premises or call 0999 332 233 to register for membership.
This is an inaugural event for the College of Medicine Sports Complex that will start from 6am to 8am and open to any interested enthusiasts with a minimum donation of K2,000.