Keonjhar, August 14: Even as people these are becoming more and more conscious bout health and fitness, a gymnasium, said to be the oldest in Keonjhar, has been left to wallow in neglect.
The gym was set up on the premises of Children part in 1968-69. 50 years have passed since it was set up, but neither the government nor any private organization has come forward for its renovation. Still some poor youths come here to for body building and exercise.
Locals lamented that lakhs of rupees are being spent for modern multi-gyms, but no attention has been paid for equipping with some new instruments.
Some sports enthusiasts observed that the gym is renovated, it will be helpful for youths to prepare for body building competitions.
The membership of the gym is about 800. Nearly 100 youhts turn up here on a daily basis.
Though the town has six multi gyms, the manual gym has not lost its charm among youths.
The 50-year old gym is housed in 40/10 ft room. It has not rest room, drinking water and toilet. The youths are contributing Rs 100 each every month to keep its maintenance.
Jitendra Dehuri, a local youth said,”I have been coming to the gym for a year. Here is no trainer. I have to learn myself. If more facilities are provided here, all will get benefits.”
Sanjay Kumar Mohant, another youth, said,”I have been here for five years. Old machines are here. New machines are need. No water is here.”
Satyaban Das, another gym buff, said,”I have been coming here for six years. Manual gum will help one making a good physique. Youths today need it more. The old gym needs to be renovated.”
PNN