NAN deputy grand chief challenges communities to get active

Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Mike Metatawabin wants more fitness facilities developed across NAN territory.
“I think we should encourage our communities to have fitness facilities so young people can have a place to go to instill confidence,” Metatawabin said, noting once youth become physically active and competitive they can aim for competitions such as the North American Indigenous Games. “There is no reason northern Ontario should not be represented at these events. So I challenge northern Ontario: let’s get active.”
Metatawabin began lifting weights two years ago after he realized he “couldn’t even climb two flights” of stairs.
“When I got to the third floor I was totally out of breath,” Metatawabin said. “I thought I better start doing something about this.”
Metatawabin has since built up his stamina by gradually increasing his weight-lifting program over the months using both free weights and the weight machines.
“When I’m travelling, I try to make time to go to the gym in the evening,” Metatawabin said. “I try to make it at least twice a week.”
Metatawabin is looking to broaden his exercise program this year by focusing on more cardiovascular exercise, such as running or walking.
“I’ve got to do something about my cardio,” Metatawabin said. “Exercise is good; I recommend it for everybody.”
Although Metatawabin’s exercise program may be working well for him, others are encouraged to seek medical advice before undertaking any exercise program.
Metatawabin got the idea of weightlifting from an old friend who he met again after not seeing him for a number of years.
“He used to be overweight as well, so I was surprised when I saw him,” Metatawabin said, explaining he asked his friend what had happened. “He told me he was exercising – that’s where I got the idea. It’s more for prevention rather than waiting for something to set in.”
Metatawabin has felt an improvement in his conditioning since beginning his exercise program.
“After doing this for a couple of years I feel much better,” Metatawabin said. “I’m not as sluggish as I used to be.”
Metatawabin picked up most of his weight-lifting routine by watching what other people were doing in the gym.
“But I haven’t got into taking those supplements,” Metatawabin said. “For me, it’s more of an exercise to maintain stamina.”
Metatawabin said his father was quite active until he was 60 and is “still pretty agile” at the age of 90. He used a dog sled most of his life and was physically active on the trap line while living along the Albany River.
“My dad had a six pack – on his tummy,” Metetawabin said, referring to his father’s strong abdominal muscles. “It was quite impressive for an old guy.”