Be Fit movement turns one

Trainer Lindon James and Be Fit members will be celebrating their first anniversary on June 9, 2016. Although just turning one, James has conducted fitness training for the past several years at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex. Starting with just 10-15 persons in 2012, his group has grown to 155 members after he decided to formalize and outfit members with branded gear in June 2015.

The Be Fit movement is one of the largest fitness groups in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and seeks to encourage persons to adopt a healthy lifestyle and remain fit.{{more}} Fitness routines vary on a daily basis to challenge individuals mentally and physically, while fostering teamwork, building self-confidence and self-esteem. James indicated that since launching his fitness group, feedback and support from the business community has been favourable and he looks forward to their continued support.

During the launch, June 2015, Minister of Sports and Culture Cecil Mckie encouraged persons to take their health seriously.

“It is a great initiative by Lindon to provide such a service. Exercise and maintaining a healthy diet is very important, as it minimizes numerous illnesses and keeps one’s mind, body and soul fit and alert… there is no feeling compared to that feeling when you meet your diet/weight goals.”

James admitted that persons sometimes feel discouraged when just starting the fitness regime. “The hardest part is starting,” he said, but guaranteed that once persons monitor their diet and maintain an active life style, results will show. To celebrate their first anniversary, a range of activities will take place, including their week of activities, which will climax with a WET Pool Party June 12 at Spring Garden.

Despite negative criticism at times, James noted: “I am proud of how far we have come; it was not easy and I have to give thanks to all of the members for choosing Be Fit and the few members that work behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly.” James also added that he would like to say thanks to Michael Ollivierre for supplying the group with great fitness gear and quality printing; Skinny Fabulous for his continued motivation; Kensly Deane for their great artwork; the management of the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex for permission to use the facility and Natalie George for her record keeping.

“The future looks extremely fit,” James indicated, as he will be investing in major branding material for the group, equipment to expand the variety of workouts and hosting international or regional fitness trainers. He added that during the one year Be Fit has also partnered and sponsored several groups in their fund-raising events, such as Rotary’s Walk for Dyslexia and Blue Marlins Swim Club fund-raiser walk.

Training is done four days a week 5:30-6:30 a.m. and 5-6:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday. James also provides private training.