Fit-Fil Camp set in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines - Individuals who want to get fit, strong and at the same time lose weight could enjoy that complete health package through the Cebu leg of the nationwide 1st Fit-Fil Camp scheduled to be held from May 15 to June 9 at the Terraces of Ayala Center Cebu.

Powered by the slogan "Let's be fit Filipinos", Fit-Fil is an advocacy campaign of the country's sought-after fitness instructor Jim Saret aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and physical well-being among the Filipinos.

"This 'Fit Camp' is just one of the several projects we're doing under Fit-Fil. It wants to help the Filipinos become fit through this advocacy," said Saret in a press conference yesterday at Big Mao in Ayala Center Cebu.

Saret was with his wife Toni, a US cross-fit certified trainer, and fitness buff Alan G. Choachuy, one of the most disciplined and brightest contestants during last year's Pinoy edition of the 'Biggest Loser' on ABS-CBN.

Saret, who holds a degree in Master of Science in Athletic Training and Sports Medicine from Brigham Young University in the United States, said the program caters to all kinds of people - from overweight to those who are already fit but still craves to bring their physical stature into a different level.

"It caters to all depending on their fitness level. Aside from the obese, I also challenged those who are already fit and in top form to join the camp. I'll bring them to the next level and even make them stronger," said Saret, a celebrated performance enhancement specialist. "If you join our program you'll get fitter and stronger and you lose weight."

Saret, who is also the speed and conditioning coach of Smart Gilas Pilipinas and sports training consultant of the Philippine Olympic Committee, said they are going to implement a scientific method of training that focuses mainly on exercises using body weight.

"What makes this program unique is the assurance that you will get fit and strong. Losing weight is already a bonus," said Saret. "But this is the first one that we guarantee weight loss. In four weeks, they will get the result they did not experience before."

Choachuy, for his part, said they are holding the camp in an open area to inculcate in the participants a sense of purpose, commitment and dedication to what they are doing.

"When people are watching over what they are doing, I think it's a good motivational factor for them. It will make them more committed and dedicated in achieving their goal of a healthy lifestyle. In that way, they may also encourage others to do the same," said Choachuy, who had shed off an incredible 124 pounds during his three-month stint with the health-related television show.

Choachuy is now actively involved in various long-distance races, the most recent was the XTerra Philippine Off-Road Championships last week in Liloan where he swam 1.5 kilometers, bike for 39km and ran for 10k.

Choachuy's self-imposed fitness and athletic discipline made him perfect model for the Fit-Fil Camp all over the country. "What he's been doing is really worth emulating for," said Saret in praising Choachuy.

For more inquiries regarding the Fit-Fil Camp, interested parties may e-mail [email protected].