Yesterday

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If you were in the UK in the early 1990s you might know Rob Bone from the BBC’s Good Morning Show.

Or maybe as an unbeaten New Zealand aerobics champion.

But these days he’s a bit of a legend at Christchurch City Council group fitness classes where he’s taught for the last 14 years.

“I’ve been teaching group fitness since 1990 and was previously a triathlete, motorcross rider, footballer, and golfer,” he said.

“But I started out aerobics attending conventions overseas in the late 80s and thought ‘I could do that’ even though I had no prior experience. I then actually entered an aerobics championship in the South Island where I placed second.”

“I travelled to London in the early 90s and taught in many of the illustrious city clubs. I also got the role of the group fitness presenter on BBC’s Good Morning show and taught a five-minute daily routine - partly for fitness content and mostly for entertainment.”

Back in New Zealand, Rob and his aerobic pairs partner Erica Pinion won the NZ Aerobic Championships six years in a row - they remain unbeaten.

The pair also represented New Zealand 17 times, were ranked seventh in the world and won bronze medal at the European Open Championships.

Rob took up a role at the Council in 2010 and is now a Training Advisor, supporting the training requirements of group fitness instructors acrossthe six recreation and sports centres.

“I get to share my experience with new recruits and get them to where they want to be faster, and more effectively. I enjoy seeing them then start their group fitness career and loving it. I also enjoy teaching my own sessions, getting other people to move, educating them, and being an entertainer!” Rob said.

He also hasn’t given up teaching, getting at least one class in a day and always bringing his vibrant, aerobic flair.

He would encourage anyone to head along, even if you’re just a little curious.

“We cater for 14–90 plus year olds. You will be welcomed and looked after. It’s a great social environment, you move, get healthier, be part of something, be educated, be entertained, and have fun!” Rob said.

If you’re interested in our classes, come and talk to us, we would love to hear your background, and how we can help you on your fitness journey. We will point you in the right direction and introduce you to some great people. There is never any judgment of anybody.”

Find out more about the Recreation and Sports Centre Group Fitness Classes here.