Ruimsig running coach shares insight into keeping fit

A local runner with a passion for helping people realise their body’s potential.

Ronald Eykenduyn (55) grew up in Little Falls and has been a part of the Run/Walk For Life community for 30 years and counting.

He recently picked up the reins at the Ruimsig Club after spending seven years at Krugersdorp. His passion for fitness started after he was recruited into the army.

“The routine jogs and exercises got me fit and from there on out I cherished my fitness and health. I joined the club after I left the army in 1992, my dad was one of the members and asked me if I’d like to join to keep up my physique,” Ronald elaborated.

“I had an unfortunate moment while running the Two Oceans ultramarathon, I was running past one of the water points and I dodged some of the runners stopping to have a drink I slipped on a half-empty bag of water and tore every ligament in my knee,” he explained, chuckling as he mentioned that although his knee looked like a watermelon, he persevered and made it past the finish line.

“My doctor looked at my knee and sighed, asking if I finished the marathon, and I simply answered ‘of course’,” he added, “needless to say, I had to let my knee heal for about six months before I could even think of running again.”

During his knee rehabilitation, Ronald had to relearn how to walk, then racewalk, and then finally run again. “I took part in provincial and inter-provincial racewalking championships,” he added.

He also mentioned that being a coach means more than just standing around and giving orders, he has a plethora of wisdom and courses under his belt which benefits those under his wing.

“It is important to have basic first aid knowledge as well as knowing what to look for when my runners or walkers are doing their sessions. The correct posture and a person’s gait is very important when exercising as this will help keep them from spraining an ankle or injuring a muscle,” Ronald explained, adding that he did a course as a sports massage therapist after his injury to help others avoid going through the same pain and discomfort he went through.

He strongly believes that his club is not just another fitness club, but the beginning of a lifestyle change.

“I love seeing my runners reach their milestones,” he said. When he’s not coaching, Ronald works in marketing, “I love sharing new and interesting developments with those around me.”