Youth charity wraps up fitness camp
A fitness camp which targeted teenagers to ensure they build valuable life skills wrapped up last week.
Raleigh International Bermuda said the “impactful” Brave Fit Camp, which it hosted in partnership with Magnum Force Gym, was designed to address the rising obesity, diabetes and inactivity rates on the island.
The charity said: “This unique initiative aligns with Raleigh’s mission of preparing young Bermudians, both mentally and physically, for transformative overseas expeditions to locations like Costa Rica, Kenya, Borneo, and South Africa.
“Brave Fit Camp fills a critical gap as many local teens, especially those over 14, often miss out on consistent physical activity.”
Dany de Rodriguez, executive director, said: “We are deeply concerned about the health and wellness of our young people.
“When proper nutrition and fitness are neglected, it creates a ripple effect that impacts every aspect of their lives—leading to poor decision—making, preventable health complications, and serious learning challenges in the classroom.”
She said the programme offered teenagers critical resources and hands-on experience to not only combat health risks but build vital life skills.
She added: “This programme empowers youth with confidence in the gym, nutritional awareness, and emotional management—all of which are crucial in addressing deeper, systemic issues in our community such as gang violence, antisocial behaviour, and anger management.
“This is about giving our youth the tools to thrive and make healthier, positive choices for their futures.”
•Using gym machines and equipment: students gained confidence using gym equipment, learning to adjust settings, understand machine functions and safely start with manageable weights.
•Weightlifting and strength training skills: the programme introduced foundational movements like squats, dead lifts and bench presses, teaching proper form and gradual weight progression for strength-building.
•Cardiovascular exercises: teenagers learnt to effectively use cardio machines like treadmills and rowing machines, exploring interval training for cardiovascular endurance.
•Resistance and dynamic progressive exercises: teenagers were introduced to resistance bands, body weight exercises, and progressive routines, emphasising flexibility, muscle endurance, and balanced physical development.
Magnum Force Gym is owned by Karen Magnum, a strong supporter and advocate for youth.
Keri Pacheco, Raleigh’s programme co-ordinator, received support from fitness coaches Christine Miranda of Magnum Force Gym, Alex Dill of Primal Nation and Cole Durham to carry out the fitness exercises.
The charity said the students practised self-defence, weight training, strength conditioning and boxing.
The charity said Deloitte Bermuda, Butterfield & Vallis and Brown & Co all supported the experience, reinforcing the community’s commitment to youth wellness.
The charity, which is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this year, said more than 250 teenagers between ages 14 and 17 have participated in the Brave programme.
It said more than 185 Venturers’ Scholarships were awarded to young adults between ages 17 and 24 for ten-week overseas expeditions.
As it marks the anniversary milestone, the charity is inviting residents to participate in its Twentieth Anniversary Trek Challenge on December 1.
The adventure and fitness trek, which starts at 9.30am from Dockyard to Whale Bay, is aimed at raising funds for the charity’s programmes.
It also celebrates two decades of the charity’s impact on the community and aims to inspire more young Bermudians to embrace health, wellness, and adventure.
•To learn more about Raleigh Bermuda and sign-up for the December 1 challenge, visit www.raleigh.bm or contact info@raleigh.bm
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