Health course 'changed my life'

SUCCESS STORY: Victa Wilson, 47, says Tane Takitu Ake gave him a springboard to help others. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

Rotorua man Victa Wilson feels like anything is possible after completing the Tane Takitu Ake programme run by Korowai Aroha.

Mr Wilson, 47, was one of six participants who graduated from the 10-week programme yesterday, which helps participants get healthy through exercise and nutritional advice.

The programme has been running for two years.

"I am just happy and it's given me a springboard to help myself and help others."

Mr Wilson said the friendships he made over the course were part of why the course had been so successful for him.

"It has given me a lot of confidence to do anything. I am reconnecting with family and friends."

He said the course "changed his life", and has helped him develop the confidence to continue to be mentally and physically well.

Programme co-ordinator Tracey Ormsby said the focus of the course was on changing patterns of behaviour.

"It is about inter-generational behavioural changes. For the younger ones it's more of a preventative strategy.

"We try not to focus on the weight loss and focus the whole thing on wellbeing, and help them make useful changes, as well as offering advice, and motivation."

He said participants often came in with a number of issues beyond wanting to lose weight.

"There are quite a number of things [we help with], including mental health - if we see there's a member in the group [needing help] we get in professional people."

Mr Ormsby said the course gave men a new lease on life.

"We run four intakes throughout the year. We get a lot of middle-aged men in their 50s and 60s.

"We try and engage with them two or three times a week over the 10 weeks. That's two times in the gym and in between we have special sessions with a nutritionist."

-Enrolments for the course beginning October 5 are now open. Drop in to the Korowai Aroha Trust on Hinemoa St, or call (07) 348 8454.