Zimbabwean Fitness Club Innovatively Utilizes Cemetery to Promote Health
The Commandos Fitness Club in Harare, Zimbabwe, has repurposed a cemetery as a workout space for older adults. Founded by Joseph Nekati, the club promotes healthy living amid rising non-communicable diseases. Limited access to safe exercise facilities makes this initiative crucial for members aiming to manage health conditions. Despite government efforts to encourage better dietary habits, many still rely on fast food, highlighting the need for alternative fitness solutions.
In Harare, Zimbabwe, the Commandos Fitness Club has transformed a cemetery into a fitness venue for older adults seeking to maintain their health. Established by Joseph Nekati in response to his mother’s stroke in 2023, the club promotes regular physical activity among its 20 members. Participants engage in walking, stretching, and various workouts along the cemetery paths, aiming to combat health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis.
The rise in non-communicable diseases, which account for approximately 40% of fatalities in Zimbabwe, underscores the necessity for such initiatives. Limited access to affordable exercise facilities forces many residents to opt for unconventional locations, with many engaging in workouts along highways or in unsafe areas. The innovation of utilizing a cemetery not only provides a safe environment but also creates a community amongst its participants.
Despite efforts from the government to tax unhealthy foods to promote better nutrition, many citizens continue to indulge in fast food options due to affordability. This trend exacerbates health concerns within the population, including among young individuals. As a result, fitness clubs like Commandos are becoming essential for older adults, including members such as 65-year-old Nelly Mutandwa, who seek to remain active while advocating for better fitness facilities in the community.
The innovative approach of utilizing a cemetery for fitness purposes illustrates a proactive response to rising health issues in Zimbabwe. With a strong emphasis on community and well-being, the Commandos Fitness Club serves not only to improve individual health but also to address broader societal challenges related to nutrition and exercise access. As non-communicable diseases continue to escalate, grassroots initiatives like this become increasingly vital for promoting healthier lifestyles among older adults.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
