THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
Noting the importance of physical fitness of sportspersons, Minister for Industries, Sports and Youth Affairs E P Jayarajan announced that Rs 16 crore will be allotted to GV Raja Sports School in the capital and Kannur Sports Division School for major infrastructure developments.
The minister’s announcement came during the inauguration of the world class Sports Life Fitness Centre at the Jimmy George Indoor Stadium, which marks a big stride in sports infrastructure development in Kerala, here today.
In his address, Jayarajan said since the government assumed power, around 169 sportspersons have been given jobs, and plans are on the anvil to appoint another 249 soon.
“Giving emphasis on fitness, marathons will also be conducted in all districts. The government has already completed nine such fitness centres in the state and they will be functioning shortly. Around 50 people can train themselves at the same time in this centre,” he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Sangram Chougule, Mr. Universe and Mr. World, admired the facility, and added that it is the best fitness centre in the country.
The state-of-the-art facility, which features a wide range of high precision workout equipment and services of reputed and experienced instructors, has been set up at an area of 337 sq mtr at the Rajiv Gandhi Sports Medicine Centre, at the Jimmy George Sports Hub in the heart of the state capital.
V S Sivakumar, MLA, presided over the inaugural function, which was attended by Dr A Jayatilak, Principal Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs; D. Mohan, President, District Sports Council; and Mohan Kumar.N, Chief Engineer, Sports Engineering Department, DSYA, were present on the occasion. Sanjayan Kumar, Director, Sports and Youth Affairs, proposed a vote of thanks.
One of the largest gyms in the state, the facility will cater to public as well as players and upcoming athletes. Special discounted rates shall be given to players at the facility.
Around Rs 1.5 crore has been spent for the exercise machines and other equipment of international standards at the Fitness Centre, including those for aerobic, cycling and high intensity exercises. The fully air conditioned facility has all the amenities including LED lighting, well-laid- out workout space change rooms and rest rooms.
It comes as an add-on facility for sports personalities and budding talents undergoing regular training sessions at the Jimmy George sports hub. It can also be a venue for future national events to be hosted by the state.
The DSYA has embarked on an ambitious plan of developing nine top class fitness centres across the state. The District Sports Council President D Mohanan, Chief Engineer Sports, Mohan Kumar N, were present at the inaugural ceremony.
