AUSUITTUQ/GRISE FIORD
Grise Fiord residents are getting into shape by using new gym equipment that has been available at the new community centre since January.
Grise Fiord residents are using new exercise bikes and other equipment to get in shape, thanks to a $2,000 grant from the hamlet. - photo courtesy of Joanne Dignard |
"A lot of people like to go there, especially for walking, because it's too cold to go outside," said resident Saalia Pijamini, a recreation committee member who enjoys using the equipment to strengthen her abdominal muscles.
"We don't have a lot of healthy foods to choose from, so to have an exercise program is nice."
Community nurse Joanne Dignard received $2,000 in funding from the hamlet council, and has been able to acquire or order two stationary bicycles, two trampolines, two wheel rollers, 10 workout mats, 10 fitness balls, 10 sets of two-pound weights, four sets of stretchy bands, two medicine balls and more.
The hamlet's senior administrative officer donated his Total Gym 1000, which Dignard says is being put to good use. So far, the most popular item is the DVD player.
"I have a tonne of workout videos," Dignard said. She had to leave for vacation soon after acquiring the equipment, which is brought out when needed and set up on the balcony above the gymnasium.
"I did not want to invade or take time away from the kids in the gym, since they need it," she said. "It's a great private spot to work out."
Between five and 10 women - so far it's all women - use the equipment, and Pijamini is hoping more youth will start using the equipment, which she has been managing with Arnarulunnguaq Audlaluk during Dignard's absence.
"Not a lot of teenagers go," Pijamini said, adding that might change as the equipment options grow.
"Once I brought the Ab Rocket, there were more teenagers interested in that."
In the long-term, Pijamini would like to see a dedicated space for working out.
"It's just too noisy" when children are in the gymnasium downstairs.
"I think a lot of people don't want to go because of that."
No private rooms are available at the hamlet office, she said.
But it's still early days in the project, and Dignard hopes to see it grow.
She suggests the group may move outdoors in the summer for some activities, such as a weekend yoga class on the tundra.
"It's to promote good health, for diabetes prevention and other disease prevention and good mental health," she said, noting the importance of staying active during the dark season.
"We have to be the example for the kids to stay healthy."
