After hearing about the success of the co-funded ‘Curry Fitness – Suffer in Silence (SIS)’ MINQ program multiple times, we reached out to Elliot Watson to discuss what it’s like running a Move It NQ program in Regional North Queensland.
SIS is a kettlebell-based fitness program that consists of running intervals, kettlebell training and core training to improve day to day function running in a public park every Monday and Wednesday.
Hi Elliot, what do you hope comes out of the S.I.S – Curry Fitness Program?
I really just want to see people improve their health, the most exciting part about it all is the effect it’ll have on our children. If we can set the example that exercising is a normal part of life for our young ones coming through then that’ll lead to a healthier next generation and if they continue on the example we’ve set then people will continue to live healthier happier lives.
In the same breath the impact this has already had on people’s mental well-being is nothing short of amazing. Too many lives are lost as a result of people’s individual struggles and having an avenue where we can do something to promote physical health as well as having a positive effect on the mental and social well-being is beneficial for everyone. I know exercising has helped me greatly during my tough times and I hope this provides people the same opportunity to help them through any struggles!
Do you have any tips for potential community members looking to get more active?
I understand it can be a daunting thought to get out and start exercising particularly in a group. Remembering that everything can be scaled down to a level that suits you is probably the most important thing, you don’t have to go out and do exactly what everyone else does.
Consistency is the key, if you go too hard for your first week it can leave you not wanting to continue but if you start a little slower and keep building on it that’s when the results compound!
The other thing is realising just how excited everybody is to see new people join in. Like I said it can be daunting but you’ll quickly realise there is no judgement and it’s a very welcoming and encouraging community we all just want to see each other achieve what you set out to!
What’s the best part about running the program?
Seeing everyone grow in their well-being and confidence. People turning up for their first session and you can see their nerves prior to starting in comparison to a few weeks down the track once they’ve got a few workouts under their belt is incredibly motivating. Each individual is on their own journey and to see them start kicking goals and progressing is a pretty special thing to be a part of. As well as having all the kids down at the oval and having the young people getting to witness their parents, aunties/uncles all putting in the mahi is such an amazing thing for the community and future generations!
Finally, what do you like about living in Cloncurry?
How friendly the community is. I’ve found it very welcoming during my 6 years here and every time you leave the house people are always smiling at you and asking how things are.
You can join the SIS Curry Fitness community on Facebook, and sign up for classes inside the MINQ App
FB Link:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561711471604
‘This MINQ Program has been made possible by funding from Western Queensland PHN.’
