Senator Sets The Ball Rolling
Sydney Morning Herald
Wednesday July 8, 1992
EXERCISE is the passport to fitness, but many people say they have no time, or place, to undertake a regular fitness program.
Senator Kerry Sibraa is inviting northside groups to apply to the Federal Government's Community, Cultural, Recreation and Sports Facilities Program for funds for sporting facilities.
Senator Sibraa, of Dee Why, said groups could apply for up to $250,000 assistance for any project.
"The 1992 program is part of the $30 million, three-year program announced in the 1991 Budget," he said. "In 1991-92, the scheme saw more than 1,800 groups apply for assistance."
The program funded more than 330 projects in its first year.
They ranged from aquatic facilities to lighting for sports grounds.
A gym "for people who hate gyms" has been open for business in Mosman for two years. Mr John Thixton runs Over Forty Fitness.
Mr Thixton understands the problems of the not-so-young.
His programs take into account bad backs, stiff knees and frozen shoulders, and exercise is done in small, friendly groups.
Over Forty Fitness gives a free fitness evaluation as well as diet advice for those who want to lose extra inches.
At the other extreme is the Pumphouse Fitness Club in Neutral Bay, which has introduced kindy gym for toddlers up to five-year-olds.
Instructor Brad Patterson said the children learnt to "balance, stretch and tumble to nursery rhymes".
The 45-minute sessions on Saturday mornings cost $5.
On Thursday nights, the club "pumps up the music" from 7 pm until 9 pm with a live DJ.
Most people believe fitness is important, but finding the time to exercise is often a problem. A home fitness program may be the answer.
Exercise equipment and home gyms designed for the whole family are popular. Computerised cycling and rowing machines take the boredom out of exercising and make it more interesting.
Calories and heart rates are counted and the more sophisticated equipment offers simulated courses as an extra challenge.
Staff at the Exa Gym shop in Cremorne will write individual exercise programs for the home athlete. All you have to supply is the effort.
© 1992 Sydney Morning Herald