Fitness Tips from Fitness 2J2: Looking back on a year of fitness
- Joel Pedersen | December 21, 2018
Christmas time is a time for giving, to share goodwill with others. December being the last month of the year is also a time to reflect on the year gone past. To build on the hope, learn from success and the challenges and to prepare for the upcoming year.
Giving back to community has been something that TransWest Air does often for the passengers and communities it serves. I have been fortunate to be partnering with [them] over the past few years for some of Fitness 2J2 programs. Last weekend Santa Claus came to Fond du Lac, Stoney Rapids, Black Lake and Hatchet Lake in a whirlwind Santa extravaganza. Thanks to the efforts of TransWest Air.
This was my first-time being part of the volunteer crew of “Reindeer and Elves” on the Santa Claus Run. Delivering Christmas gifts to girls and boys as well as oranges, candy canes, spontaneous songs from our Professional Elf Miki, lots of smiles and laughter for kids and adults. Santa made time for every kid – young and old – where some brought him cards and cookies.
For me it was great to see some of the kids I have brought fitness programming to over the last few years. To see some of my relations “Sela’s”, and to re-connect with others. As my kids are not so little anymore, it is always a gift to see the excitement and reaction of the younger kids when they see Santa.
It has been an exciting year for me, and Fitness 2J2, so proud to be expanding programming into communities throughout Saskatchewan. Now I’m looking to work with communities in Manitoba and Ontario to empower and inspire all ages and abilities, to build healthy and positive lifestyles through functional fitness and sport programming.
This year I was part of a team from Saskatchewan Park and Recreation Association (SPRA) that delivered the first Indigenous Fitness Leader Certification. We had 18 women and men from across the province complete the program, and many are now training in their communities. The long-term goal is to have fitness leaders in all Indigenous communities, from the community. Leadership, mentorship, stewardship and the principals are what I learned in my military and police careers. To pass on some of that knowledge is what I look forward to doing in the upcoming year through continues training and programing.
From my supportive family Kim, Neave, Zach, Keyra and myself; along with all the coaches, trainers, volunteers from Fitness 2J2. I wish all the readers of Eagle Feather News a Merry Christmas and an awesome and healthy new year, we look forward to spending time with you soon.
Fitness 2J2 is a socially responsible community-based health and wellness company. Contributing to the success and vitality of our communities, promoting healthy and positive lifestyles for Indigenous people of all ages and abilities. STRONG HEALTHY PROUD.