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METRO WORKOUT

Exercise, the hard way

Photo: Vipin Chandran

Working out All in a hard day’s work

If you are looking for training styles that are little more ‘extreme,’ virtually ‘hardcore’ than the routine, soft ones then Ernakulam Gymnasium is the right place.

The desire to try out some of the grinding routines or the dream of sculpting a toned body dissolved the moment I stepped into the huge hall that was packed with trainees. The feel was one of raw power, no-fooling-around, no frills. There was none of the sophistication that one usually associates with the new-age fitness centres.

“Many are initially put off by this feeling. Of course, we are not like the other fitness centres, the initiation through structured exercise regimen can be a bit tough, but once you come out of it you are sure to warm up to our style,” says Stanley Joshy, secretary of the gymnasium who also doubles up as trainer.

Established way back in 1951 Ernakulam Gymnasium has churned out innumerable champions in bodybuilding, wrestling, powerlifting, weightlifting and arm wrestling down the years. “Actually, the gymnasium began functioning in the late 40s. A few members like Sahodaran Ayyappan, Dr. B. M. Ambady, Joseph Chakola met the Maharaja of Cochin and requested permission to build a gymnasium in this present plot of land. The Maharajah consented and even allotted wood from Chalakudy for the construction of the building. In the beginning we functioned from a temporary shed. Later, this present building was built,” informs K. Ramanathan, (Raman Asan) 74, one of the earliest members who is now a trainer at the gym.

Walking into the gym at that time was an elderly gentleman, dressed in a T-shirt and shorts with a towel thrown over his shoulder. “That’s Dr. E. T. Kuriakose, retired DMO. He must be over eighty but is a regular here, comes every evening,” M. Radhakrishnan, president of the gym, says perhaps noticing that questioning expression on my face. “We have around 500 regular members and more than 1,000 who have registered with us. They come from all walks of life, from labourers to doctors, lawyers and police officers. We collect only a nominal monthly fee of Rs. 40 enabling anyone interested to join. We are open from 5 to 10 a.m. and from 3 to 9.30 p.m. and do not stipulate specific timings. This allows members to train at their convenience.”

Every member who joins the gym undergoes a basic physical training programme.

“This is basically for three months. Of course, it depends on the trainee and his physical condition. Some of them complete it earlier and proceed to weight training or the other discipline of his choice. We have manual treadmills, the latest multi-gym equipment and trainers for the different items. As part of the training we conduct food, nutrition and basic fitness classes for the members,” says Joshy.

The Ernakulam Gymnasium is also actively involved in charitable activities.

“It has been our policy to spread the message of fitness. Along with that we involve ourselves in various social activities like organising blood donation camps, extend help during calamities etc. We are not marketing fitness, nor are we into this to make a quick buck,” states Radhakrishnan.

Bottomline: Efficient trainers, a huge reputation and an amazing track record.

Most of the trainers at the other fitness centres in the city are invariably from this gym. Ideally located in the heart of the city, this is the best place for those keen on competitive sport and also for the fitness freak.

Downside: Since there are no specific time schedules for trainers the gym tends to be crowded during peak hours. There is also need for a dress code.

Contact Ernakulam Gymnasium at 2378798, trainers K. Ramanathan 995882284 and Stanley Joshy 9947344115.

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