By Bena Nekesa
In the heart of Uganda Christian University (UCU), amidst the bustling academic endeavors and vibrant Mukono campus life, the UCU Fitness Club emerged.
The club visionary is Charles Miti, age 31, a student working toward a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance, School of Business. While he struggled with a weight of 94 kilograms (207 pounds), he knew that body image was more than physical fitness. He envisioned a journey of holistic transformation that encompasses mental resilience and spiritual growth not just for himself but others. Since its inception a year ago, the club has become a cornerstone of support and empowerment for its members, touching the lives of students in profound ways.
The story of the UCU Fitness Club began when Charles engaged in a walk of 78.4 kilometers (48.7 miles) from Kampala to Jinja during the throes of the Covid-19 pandemic. The journey garnered others’ attention on social media platforms and further ignited a passion for health and fitness within Charles.
“I was inspired to create a space where others could embark on their own transformative voyages,” he said. “Walking is at the center of what we do, but it’s so much more. Fitness is medicine and is everything. Once you choose the road of fitness, you are cured physically, mentally and spiritually.”
With the support of like-minded individuals such as Edonu Emmanuel, a UCU School of Law student, the club took root, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among its members. Charles’s brother, a medical doctor, Joseph Ssebanenya, played crucial roles in the club’s inception. At the 2024 program launch in February, the brother provided insights about health and fitness. Additionally, Charles’s family, including two sisters and their parents, who are retired farmers, formed a supportive foundation for his endeavors.
Through activities like hiking, swimming, and other physical challenges, the club members forged bonds that transcended mere acquaintanceship, evolving into a tight-knit community.
The American Medical Association reports exercise as a top contributor to a healthy and longer life. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO), regular exercise not only extends lifespan by up to 10 years, but also promotes overall health, reduces the risk of chronic diseases and enhanced cognitive function, leading to improved productivity and quality of life.
For Charles and the 50 other participants, the club represents more than just physical activity; it is a sanctuary of happiness and personal growth. Rejecting the allure of vices like clubbing and substance abuse, Charles and others have found fulfillment in the pursuit of holistic wellness.
“Through prayer, fellowship, and shared experiences, our members discovered the transformative power of nurturing both body and spirit,” he said.
The journey of the UCU Fitness Club has not been without its obstacles. From mobilizing members to overcoming usual college temptations of parties and societal misconceptions about fitness, the club faced its fair share of challenges.
Contrary to perceptions, the pursuit of fitness did not detract from academic pursuits; rather, it complimented them. Members found that physical activity enhanced their cognitive abilities and provided a welcome respite from the rigors of academic life. Discussions during club activities often led to insights that translated into academic success, demonstrating the symbiotic relationship between physical and mental wellness.
As the club gained momentum, it became a beacon of hope. Through support and encouragement, individuals struggling with issues ranging from self-esteem to addiction found solace and strength within the club’s embrace.
“Through collective efforts, we have created a supportive community where individuals thrived, not just academically, but also emotionally and spiritually,” Charles, now weighing 74 kgs (163 lbs.), reflected.
As Charles looks towards the future, he knows that the club’s journey is far from over. With each new member welcomed and each new challenge overcome, the legacy of the UCU Fitness Club should continue to thrive, empowering more minds, bodies, and spirits.
