A significant representation of Helderberg fitness and body-building athletes at national and regional competitions over the past number of years is the telling reflection of not just commitment, discipline and hard work, but by far the most notable is that most trained under the supervision of a local trainer.
Following a successful showing at the South African IFBB Championships in Johannesburg last month, local body fitness competitor Nadene Basson has heaped praise and appreciation to Nathaneal Pekeur Coaching (NPC) and his gym, Truself Fitness in Strand.
Basson had only recently started to take fitness and body-building seriously. She explained that after two years of lockdown she was in a slump and spoke to Pekeur about reviving not just her fitness, but also her outlook and motivation.
“I trained, followed a strict diet and worked hard under the supervision of NPC, and before I knew it I entered my first competition in May last year, the David Classic in Tygervalley. My confidence was low, I was nervous, but I still took gold. It was amazing, I was so motivated to improve and work harder, and that’s when I started training for more competitions,” Basson pointed out.
Several competitions and podium finishes later, she is now focused on improving even further and has set her sights on participation in international competitions.
“I was provided with a support structure and group classes, and sessions with the trainer two to three times a week. I changed meal plans, I was motivated to overcome personal challenges, and tons of hard work later, the success is just streaming in,” she quipped.
Like Basson, fellow body fitness competitor who has participated on the national stage, Dorie Olivier of Gordon’s Bay exceeded her own expectations when she placed second at the SA Fitness Show last month.
“NPC set goals for me which were easy to reach by just following his instructions. He motivated me to become a better person physically and spiritually. In total I lost 20 kg,” she said. “The highlight was stepping on stage for the first time, knowing I gave it my all. Team NPC was supportive and assisted on all levels. After the show Pekeur checked in on me and ensured I stay motivated and focus on new goals. He ensures that, as a team, we stand in unity and remain humble.”
Another athlete with a similar admiration of Pekeur is Tilla van der Waag – herself a prize winner at competition since joining NPC.
According to Pekeur, it’s evident that the gym and his coaching style have found a niche for not just training fitness athletes, but also taking them right to the stop.
“Over the years we’ve had dozens of athletes attend shows and earn podium finishes. In the past year, 10 more members have been on the national stage,” he said. “Many individuals who come to us have aspirations they never thought possible, and our focus is achieving those very goals. We’re with the athlete every step of the way, from breakfast to the pump up before show, and even afterwards – mentally and emotionally, when the blues are real and a new goal is needed for motivation.”
His athletes have success stories from surgery recovery and arthritis to national winners, Pekeur added, and his pursuit of health and fitness has always been to help the average Joe rather than the stars.
“It’s a lifestyle change; it’s really a reflection of excellence when you see the results. We couldn’t be prouder of our members.”
