IWC supports people of all abilities with health goals at new gym

IWC Health & Wellbeing Complex in Bundaberg is now home to an air-conditioned rehabilitation-style gymnasium with Turkish baths, full-body massage chairs and a host of state-of-the-art equipment.

These include Precor strength machines, designed to offer ease-of-use and flowing, precise motion. 

“This reduces risk of injury significantly and is ideal for safely toning and strengthening muscles,” said IWC Gym Manager Ben Courtice, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist.

There also are male and female steam rooms, ideal for people looking to recover after a workout; loosen stiff joints, improve circulation or burn calories. Steam rooms, or Turkish Baths, are known to assist respiratory health. IWC Gym also offers a free-weight area, resistance machines, treadmills and a central training zone.

Ben says the Gym is suitable for people of all abilities, fitness levels and ages and is open to everyone.

 “For people who don’t have any experience in a commercial gym environment it’s very non-threatening and easy equipment to use,” he said.

“It’s also accessible to all. While it is a rehabilitation-style gym, it is a commercial operation that has a range of membership options for anyone in the community. No referral is needed to come along to IWC Gym – just come in and sign up for a few sessions, or for a longer-term membership.”

Ben says exercise has proven links to better pain management, improving mobility and capacity to get around the community.

“Other benefits might be reduced chance of falls, lower risks of chronic disease, lower risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke, or back injuries. The benefits of exercise are well-documented, including for mental health,” he said.

IWC is Aboriginal community-controlled, a registered charity and offers a holistic model of whole-of-person care that includes medical & health services, community programs and cultural education. It offers services and supports to all, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, without discrimination.

As with all IWC services, IWC Gym is affordable and accessible. It is open Monday-Friday 6am-9pm, and on Saturday from 6am-noon on Level 1 of Building 2 of the IWC Complex at 184 Barolin St, Bundaberg.

“The Gym has been a long-term goal for IWC, with a focus on incorporating rehabilitation and holistic wellness principles into its operations,” said Ben. “We are already hosting Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi sessions (fees apply), and free Healthy Eating sessions delivered by an Accredited Practising Dietitian on the third Friday of each month.”

Call 1300 492 492, or email info@iwcgym.org.au for more information.