Family workout

December 16th 2009

Havelock’s Cathy Cocker, daughter Hannah, 16, and parents Janette and Philip Steel are proving that the family that trains together, gains together.

Despite a 60-year age span, the three generations of the Cocker/Steel family are about to complete a 10-week Marlborough on the Move Team Challenge that has seen them exercise together, along with 20 other particpants, three times per week in the town hall.

Mrs Cocker said the family encouraged, supported and laughed their way through the circuit-based programme.

“We live on adjoining properties and we see each other regularly and travel their together and if someone can’t make it, or doesn’t feel like going, we give them a razz and make sure they get there.

“We love it. We get on really well and we keep each other volleyed up.”

Mrs Cocker was recovering from foot surgery when she heard about the programme provided by Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000 with funding from the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Programme.

“The minute I heard it was happening I was really keen to be involved,” Mrs Cocker said.

“They (Hannah and parents) were really keen as well – it shows how much need there is in the community.

“My father had a triple heart bypass earlier this year so it’s just been marvellous for him.

“But if we all had to travel into town, we just wouldn’t go. It can sometimes take up to 40 minutes to get to Blenheim.

“To not have to travel and just turn up at the hall is great.”

Mrs Cocker said the programme catered for all fitness levels.

“We range from 16 to 75 in our family so everyone goes at their own level,” she said.

“You’re encouraged but not pushed.

“My daughter is very active and she’s worked really hard on her toning.

“But I think my parents are the stars. They are the oldest two involved but don’t balk at doing anything.

“Whatever they’re asked to do they have a crack at it.”

All four family members have noticed a big improvement to their overall well-being since starting the Team Challenge.

“It’s absolutely stunning. It’s been marvellous,” said Mrs Cocker.

“That’s the good thing of running this programme in a small community – everyone’s supportive and you see each other around town and you notice the difference in each other.

“I don’t think there’s anyone who hasn’t had something positive out of it – both mentally and physically.”