A tale of triumph through community aerobics
PALM SPRINGS.- The beginning of a new year has been closely associated with a time for new resolutions. For many, one of the most common is to exercise more, follow a healthier diet and to lose weight. Often, however, the excitement of the New Year tends to wear off and people lose the drive to continue working on their goals.
Moeketsi Mohapi has proven that commitment and consistency are the key components of success. The 53-year-old, affectionately known as ‘Sam’, has been running an aerobics club for the community members of Palm Springs for 28 years.
Every weekday the Soweto born entrepreneur offers his members an aerobics training session in a classroom at Bafokeng Primary School. “My training plan ranges from high impact training, cardio boxing and step aerobics to name a few. The versatility of my programme allows me to offer my clients workouts that are effective for the entire body,” says Mohapi.
His passion for fitness emerged during the early 1980’s when he was introduced to semicontact karate in Zola Soweto. He received his third black belt and participated in multiple karate tournaments locally and internationally.
Themba Ngcobo who works closely with Mohapi as his assistant describes him as a “selfless and amazing” individual.
“As an assistant instructor, I have learned so much from Sam which has changed my life in a way I could have never imagined.
Leading an aerobics class was a vision very far from me but I overcame my fears through his continued support and encouragement,” Ngcobo adds.
Primary School in Palm Springs. Photo: Lindi Goba
One of his gym members, Vuyiswa Mgwevu, says she is grateful to have someone like Mohapi.
“We are just a small club that operates in a classroom, but his dedication and respect for his work is admirable.” Another member, Fikile Mthimkhulu, says she has witnessed a health-orientated lifestyle transformation through Mohapi’s assistance.
“Since joining his club in 2018 I have regained so much confidence in myself. I am healthier and now even more conscious of what I put into my mouth.”
Apart from his role as a fitness instructor, Mohapi also devotes his time to the Orange Farm Multipurpose Centre gym as the floor manager.
Although Mohapi has been running an aerobics club for almost three decades, he still hopes to establish a state-of-the-art gym with more services to offer the community soon.
