Overcome lockdown fitness challenges

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GRAAFF-REINET NEWS & VIDEO'S - For most Graaff-Reinet sportsmen and women, staying fit during lockdown, with limited space, is a huge challenge.

Three local sports stars, Xolila Shakes Galada, owner and coach of Academy Football Club, as well as Shihan Johan du Plessis, sixth Dan Jo-Du Kai Defence and Close Combat gold and bronze winner at of the 2019 SAPS national championships, and his first Dan Jo-Du Kai Defence daughter, Tammy, use confined spaces and limited equipment to stay fit and in shape.

Hento Davids, manager of Central Rugby Club, winners of the Eastern Province Karoo Regional League for 2019, said most of his players live in homes with no space or equipment to exercise.

George Yalolo, manager and coach of the Aberdeen based Destroyers Football Club echoed Davids' concern. Yalolo said his team already struggles financially and will now have to get fit from scratch, without sponsors to help them get in shape again.

Thembela Glen Futshane, the match coordinator of the Dr Beyers Naudé local football association, said very few players are practicing from home. Galada encouraged players to practice at least one hour daily, despite the restrictions.

The Aberdeen based Destroyers Football Club has little to no space or equipment to stay fit.

He said if the players keep fit, it will help the coaches to move forward after the lockdown. Du Plessis, who had coached his daughter since she was five, said she received her first Dan at the age of 21, because she knows there are no shortcuts when it comes to training. The two of them use the basics to stay fit during lockdown.

"Live healthily and remember that exercise is not always limited to a gymnasium," said Du Plessis. He advised people to use their own weight against themselves when working out at home.

"Use everyday equipment. A spade is a multipurpose tool; not only can it be used to build up a sweat in the yard, but it can also be used as an exercise tool. Also, use a plastic chair, and if you are tired you can sit and rest on it," Du Plessis added.

Xolila Shakes Galada Academy Football Club owner and coach.