Losing weight and improving health is a major goal for many of us, but not everybody has the money or time for it. Many also fear going to fitness centres wondering whether they can move their bodies according to the trainers' instructions too. This is where MEC 7, a unique form of exercise, stands out. Designed by Keralite Peringadakkad Swalahuddin, a native of Thurakkal near Kondotty, it borrows best practices from many disciplines to create a fitness regime that also fosters a sense of community. There are 21 varieties of workouts, in seven different categories, in this discipline. Here's what else you should know:
What is MEC 7?
MEC 7 stands for 'Multi Excercise Combination' and its name denotes seven categories of workouts like aerobics, simple exercises, yoga, meditation, acupressure, breathing exercises and face massage. 21 varieties of exercises from these seven categories are performed in 21 minutes. It ensures around 1750 body movements within this time and is enjoyed best with a group. The most amazing advantage of MEC 7 is that a person of any age can do it effortlessly.
The founder of MEC 7
Swalahuddin, who is a former serviceman, designed MEC 7 as he aimed to spread happiness by attaining healthy bodies and minds. He designed this exercise form by using the knowledge that he gained while serving in the army. When he retired after serving in the army for two decades, Swalahuddin dreamed of guiding his people to healthy habits and fitness regimes. He created history when the people of his locality realised the significance of Swalahuddin’s dreams and supported him. The first MEC 7 session was conducted in July 2012 at the school ground in Thurakkal, Kondotty. Ten years later, he opened the second MEC 7 centre in July 2022. However, Swalahuddin was able to open 121 exercise centres within 2 years of opening the second centre. These centres are not just places where people gather to work out, but they have turned into communities that help in fostering interpersonal relationships.
Opening centres abroad
The number of centres increased when practitioners became trainers. Now, there are 63 MEC 7 centres in Malappuram district alone. Meanwhile, Kozhikode has 26 and 28 units specially dedicated to women. MEC 7 centres have been opened in foreign cities like Jeddah, Dubai, Sharjah and Brunei. All these centres admit fitness enthusiasts free of cost.