Created: 01 November 2024 17:30

Participants at Brave Fit Camp in Raleigh Bermuda put it through their paces at the gym (Photo provided)

A fitness camp that targeted teenagers to ensure they build valuable life skills concluded last week.

Raleigh International Bermuda said the “impactful” Brave Fit Camp, which it hosted in partnership with Magnum Force Gym, was designed to address rising rates of obesity, diabetes and inactivity on the island.

The charity said: “This unique initiative aligns with Raleigh’s mission to prepare young Bermudians, both mentally and physically, for transformative overseas expeditions in locations such as Costa Rica, Kenya, Borneo and South Africa.

“Brave Fit Camp fills a critical gap as many local teenagers, especially those over 14, often miss out on consistent physical activity.”

Dany de Rodriguez, chief executive, said: “We are deeply concerned about the health and wellbeing of our young people.

“When proper nutrition and fitness are neglected, it creates a knock-on effect that affects every aspect of their lives, leading to poor decision-making, preventable health complications, and serious learning challenges in the classroom. “

Participants enjoy a moment during the program (Photo provided)

She said the program gave teenagers critical resources and hands-on experience not only to combat health risks, but also to develop vital life skills.

She added: “This program gives young people confidence in the gym, nutritional awareness and emotional management – ​​all of which are crucial in tackling deeper systemic issues in our community such as gang violence, anti-social behavior and anger management.

“It’s about giving our young people the tools to develop and make healthier, more positive choices for their future.”

Magnum Force Gym is owned by Karen Magnum, a strong supporter and advocate for youth.

Keri Pacheco, Raleigh program coordinator, received support from fitness trainers Christine Miranda of Magnum Force Gym, Alex Dill of Primal Nation and Cole Durham to conduct the fitness exercises.

The charity said the students practiced self-defence, weight training, strength training and boxing.

Participants were able to learn boxing skills during the program (Photo provided)

The charity said Deloitte Bermuda, Butterfield & Vallis and Brown & Co supported the experience, strengthening the community’s commitment to young people’s wellbeing.

The charity, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, said more than 250 14- to 17-year-olds have taken part in the Brave programme.

More than 185 adventurer scholarships are said to have been awarded to young adults between the ages of 17 and 24 for ten-week expeditions abroad.

As it marks the anniversary, the charity is inviting residents to take part in the 20th Anniversary Trek Challenge on 1 December.

The adventure and fitness trip, which starts at 9.30am from the Dockyard at Whale Bay, aims to raise funds for charity programmes.

It also celebrates two decades of the charity’s impact on the community and aims to inspire more young Bermudians to embrace health, wellness and adventure.

•To learn more about Raleigh Bermuda and to sign up for the December 1 challenge, visit www.raleigh.bm or contact [email protected]