WATCH: Veteran referee keeps pensioners fit

For four years, the Eden Park fitness club has continuously focused on its mission to curb diseases commonly associated with ageing.

Since its inception in 2016, Khululeka ‘Be Free’ Fitness Club has voluntarily dedicated to keeping the community fit and healthy.

It was established by Mandla Lukhele (51), a Ward 53 committee member who has committed to catering for both young and old health enthusiasts. The fitness club is home to 27 members; however, it mostly caters for seniors as a means to promote healthy living.

Originally from Thokoza, Lukhele first became a footballer at age nine where he played for Thokoza Sundowns. It was not long after his excellent skills landed him an assisting coach position for his then soccer team at age 11.

“At that age I was appointed by my then teammates to become their coach and I eventually stopped playing. With time I decided to only focus on coaching and my love for sport kicked off from there. Over the years, I worked as a football referee until I downed tools in my early 40s,” he said.

WATCH: A video showing the elderly preparing for the day’s session

New journey

When he moved to Eden Park because of unemployment and his passion for working closely with the elderly, he was advised to start a fitness club.

“I then established it and its name attracted a lot of people. My main aim was to tackle diseases such as heart diseases, strokes and diabetes, among others. “I’m a strong believer that if I keep them active they’ll be able to minimise these illnesses,” said Lukhele.

He told the RECORD he has been recognised and thanked by a local clinic for assisting in keeping the elderly fit.

Benefits for all

Members of the club who are aged between 22 and 75 get to actively engage in football, ball passing, tennis, netball and relay. Not only do they compete among each other, they also compete with other local teams consisting of seniors.

Annually, they also get to take part in the Mandela Remembrance Walk and Run, which takes place in Pretoria.
Julia Ntshungulwane (75), member of the fitness club, testified that their sessions are highly effective in promoting healthy living.

“Ever since I became a member here I hardly have illnesses and my blood pressure levels have really dropped. We are happy to be part of this team because not only are we benefiting health-wise, but psychologically too. Ever since the pandemic spread, not one of our members tested positive,” said Ntshungulwane.

Jabulisile Sizani, chairperson of Khululeka Fitness Club, reiterated that they are all about physical fitness.

“Each week our members come with testimonies telling us just how much progress they see in their health. We only practise three times a week and the oldies find it hard to cope for the days that we don’t come for practice,” she said.

Sizani also appealed for assistance with any sporting gear, balls or any other form of donations in order to take in more community members.

For any donations, contact Mandla Lukhele on 084 353 4533 or Jabulisile Sizani on 073 036 8825.