DESPITE gloomy weather and a slight drizzle, the battle of the bulge raged on with the Zunic Wellness holding group exercise at the parking lot of the Plaza Athirah in the capital.

Focused on raising awareness of Globesity, the fitness centre, conducted a three-hour session called "GX in the city", attended by about 40 people which included members of the public as they danced, punched and kicked their calories away. With five instructors, the event warmed up and cooled down with yoga standing poses, and in between included more energetic sessions of body attack, body jam and body combat.

Mayra Robles, business development manager, explained that 'GX' stood for 'group exercise' and the Zunic Wellness has also been actively incorporating it with community work.

Previously, the fitness centre has held free sessions in Tasek Lama on Friday mornings open to the public.

She said that the public service which included a mix of yoga, circuit training and plyometric exercises was part of their wellness awareness programme for the public.

Globesity is a term coined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to mean 'Global Obesity', excessive fat accumulation that has now become a worldwide epidemic.

According to the WHO, the number of overweight people now rivals the number of underweight people 1.1 billion overweight and 1.1 billion underfed.

The Zunic Wellness opened its doors officially to serve the fitness needs of Bruneians in November 2007 and is currently busy spreading the idea of 'creative movement' to students nationwide.

The roadshow had staff and trainers of the fitness centre demonstrating the Brazilian martial art of Capoera in addition to dancing in order to promote a healthy lifestyle. Mayra said that the response from schools has been very positive.

Very aware that Bruneians are beginning to become more conscious about their health and image, Mayra advised that the key to overall wellness is moderation and balance. She attributed it to the close-knit nature of families and how a gym-goer can easily influence the people around him to be more health-conscious. She mused that it is a challenge, especially in Brunei where food options are wide and varied and making the right decision is crucial.The Brunei Times