Catherine Pactol is an Editor.
Post-COVID, many residents are looking to get back in shape or start new, healthy practices. Lance Purdy, a fitness trainer who began working at Na Pu’uwai’s Integrated Fitness Center gym in February, is here to help.
During the Pandemic a lot of people lost their habits so the whole idea is trying to get back those habits. He is happy to see that the gym is busy now that it is open again after being closed for several years.
He said that the place was packed in the mornings. At 6 a.m, we get 13 to 17 people in here.
He spent the past 23 years in California, working as a trainer at the UFC Gym.
Since moving to Molokai with his partner Tehani Kaalekahi, Purdy has brought new energy, equipment and upgrades to the only gym facility in the island. He brought in kettle balls, which he said would get you the best results the fastest, along with other new and upgraded equipment. There are a lot of strength and cardio training opportunities at the gym.
With a background in martial arts, specifically Muay Thai and boxing, the bag cage is something Purdy is excited about.
He said that it was a great way to burn fat, get stronger, and therapy, as well as getting all that frustration out.
The gym is open Monday through Friday from 6 to 11 a.m., and 3 to 6 p.m., and Purdy hopes to expand that hours in the future. You will find Purdy welcoming new members, offering tips and proper equipment technique for those interested, and teaching Lawakua fitness classes at 5 pm.
He said the high-intensity interval training classes attract a wide variety of participants, from 18-year-olds to 30-year-olds. Each attendee has their own exercises.
He said that everyone’s body is different. I will always teach correct technique.
He encourages people to check out the gym.
A lot of people are wallflowers and I encourage them to do that. I give them some exercise movements that they can use. He said the more hours you spend, the more confidence you build.
Gym members can hire Purdy as a trainer for more personalized workouts, fitness tracking, and one-on-one coaching, in addition to offering tips and teaching classes.
A program funded by the federal government that focuses on Native Hawaiian health uses aholistic approach to disease prevention. From medical exams to nutrition, mental health and fitness, the Integrative Fitness Center plays a key role in members’ well being.
At the end of the day, Purdy said that keeping active is the goal, whether you do it at the gym or not.
If it is not in the gym, then just stay moving.
Residents can try out the day pass pilot program at the gym from September 6-16.
If you’re interested in becoming a certified coach in the community, please contact Purdy.
For more information, call the fitness center.
