Pumping Iron in Style

Back to South Africa, back to work, back to the daily routine... back to the gym.

Yes, Kabbalah student, esoteric, meditator, astrology-loving people also need to work on their abs every now and then. And I am no different.

I joined Virgin Active Melrose Arch last year and love the place.

The chain, which belongs to Sir Richard "Virgin Atlantic" Branson, is hugely popular in South Africa, and the Melrose Arch branch is the jewel of the crown. It is the poshest, most modern gym club in Johannesburg, with a members waiting list and what not.

Twice a week I train with Warren, an ultra-friendly, competent, super fit, no bullshit personal trainer. He is the handsome, positive, hard-working father of a girl and twin boys, a great teacher and pal. To me, very much the new face of South Africa. (More on him in another post).

Getting fit is one important factor for joining this club. The quiet antropological research I do every time I come to this place is the other part of it. I simply adore observing people and this place is like Disney World to me. I promise lots of writing on the many "tribes" I identify in Virgin Active.

Ah! and just for the record.. I do Yoga in the club as well. So to bring some (much needed) balance to the superficial aspect of the whole experience.

1-2-3-4, shantiiii, 1-2-3-4, shantiiii, santiiiiii.