Fostering fitness at Taupō Events Centre

Supporting people with long-term health conditions is part of physiologist Franco’s DNA.

“I strongly believe that exercise can significantly improve people’s quality of life. I do this work because it is deeply rewarding.”

Franco is a clinical exercise physiologist with Pinnacle Health and uses the fitness studio at Taupō Events Centre to help his clients who have diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic conditions.

“The gym is open, spacious, and filled with natural light and fresh air, which is not very common in gyms and creates a welcoming and non-intimidating atmosphere - especially for people attending a gym for the first time.

“My goal is to help clients exercise safely and effectively, using physical activity as a therapeutic tool to manage their condition, improve functional capacity, and enhance overall health and wellbeing.”

Having made the move from Invercargill to Taupō, Franco isn’t looking back and says it’s incredibly rewarding to see clients reflect on where they started and recognize how much more they are now capable of doing - not only in the gym, but in their everyday lives as well.

“The fitness studio provides the ideal setting to structure and deliver rehabilitation programmes. It allows clients to perform specific exercises safely, using appropriate equipment, with professional supervision and support when needed.”

Fitness and activities assistant Shaynia says the fitness studio welcomes everyone from all walks of life, young and old.

“It’s a great vibe in here. There’s no pressure and we find people of all different abilities enjoy using the space and the equipment. Partnering with Pinnacle Health is a great example of how we work with various community providers to enable a healthier lifestyle and complement aftercare for those who need it.

“There’s certainly no need to be nervous if you’re thinking about joining or don’t know where to start," says Shaynia. "You can come talk to us about your options and we’ll help you with your goals, whatever they are.”

Franco recognises that his clients are helped by the fitness studio having recently updated its equipment which allows him to design effective programmes without limitations.

“Most importantly, the environment promotes the idea that the fitness studio is for everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or health condition. The staff are friendly, approachable, and always willing to support clients whenever they need an extra hand, which makes a significant difference in building confidence and consistency.”

Franco recommends anyone to get in touch or give it a go. He says people often discover a whole new world when they start coming to the fitness studio.

“They are often surprised by how quickly they learn to use new equipment, how confident they become, and how much progress they make over time.”

Find out how to make your own progress at www.taupo.govt.nz/fitnessstudio or www.pinnacle.co.nz

Please note: New gym equipment is arriving from 18 to 19 February, meaning part of the mezzanine will be closed and some equipment temporarily removed. The fitness studio will remain open throughout the upgrade.