The JJ Aerobics Club in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, has come a long way in promoting healthy living through a wide range of physical fitness and wellness activities designed to improve cardiovascular health and strength.
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Made up of retired and serving civil servants, businessmen, directors, deputy directors, permanent secretaries, and captains of industry, the club was founded in 2010 by the Mr. Tamaramiemene Felix of blessed memory, who passed away in 2020. Since then, the club has continued to thrive, funded by a committed executive body and dedicated members.
As part of its special events, members of the club, accompanied by their children, converged on the Edidie Hotel poolside on Saturday, November 15, for a unique swimming session—an activity insiders say takes place once every quarter.
Erevision MediaTV Chief Correspondent, Mr. Robinson Ere Erebi, who is also a new member of the club, spoke with the Chairman of JJ Aerobics Club, Mr. Ebiegberi Preghafi. He explained:
“This club was established over fifteen years ago. Our main centre is at the Sports Complex, and we train three times a week—Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. What we do is aerobics and other exercises to keep fit. We advise interested persons to join us at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex.”
Mr. Preghafi also highlighted the importance of gradual exercise for elderly people.
“I’m approaching 70 and can still bend down and touch my toes. By exercising, you give yourself good health. Even taking a walk around your house is exercise and will keep you fit.”
Club member Barr. Collins Boleigha, known for his heavy build, spoke on fitness goals and body type:
“The essence of exercise is multidimensional. Some exercise to lose weight, others to keep fit or feel good. My stamina and endurance are high due to consistency. Genetics also influence body size. By the grace of God, consistent exercise has helped me escape diabetes and high blood pressure.”
Chief Coach of JJ Aerobics Club, Mr. Ashanti Tonye Koru, described the special swimming outing as a tradition aligned with the club’s objectives.
“We come out every three or six months to swim and relax. I’ve been in this club for three years. Exercise is life. Some members are here to trim down, others to strengthen their heart or burn fat. The benefits of exercise are many.”
He noted that while the training is open to all ages, the routines differ:
“We take the younger ones more rigorously but handle the elderly more gently.”
Treasurer of the club, Mr. Lucky Ikierigha, described the swimming day as a social bonding activity.
“The arrangement was for us to swim and enjoy ourselves with our children. JJ Aerobics Club is not just about exercise but also about social interaction. The turnout is encouraging.”
Addressing why the club does not participate in Governor Douye Diri’s Weekly Prosperity Road Walk, he said:
“We are a private club. At our age and level, we don’t need to overstretch ourselves. We already train three times a week, which shows our seriousness. We appreciate the Governor, but one day of exercise a week isn’t enough.”
Mr. Ikierigha, who joined JJ Aerobics in 2010, added:
“After the founder passed in 2020, we resolved to keep the club going. My advice is that people should exercise according to their ability.”
Lady Ruth Ouserigha, a former hockey player for Nigeria and retired Permanent Secretary, shared her experience as a long-time member:
“JJ Aerobics is a club for exercise. Just as music is the food of life, exercise is also the food of life. I returned to JJ Aerobics when I wasn’t feeling well, and today I’m healthy. The Thursday government walk isn’t enough; that’s why we train three times a week.”
She also emphasized the importance of swimming:
“Swimming and cycling are excellent for heart health. Those who missed today’s session are missing out. I recommend swimming regularly.”
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