Face2Face with Candice Pretorius

Q: Tell us about your job.

A: I am a circuit coach at Curves Port Alfred so it is my responsibility to ensure that I strengthen women, improving their lives by helping them become fitter and stronger in an environment which is safe.  I am also a Zumba and strong instructor so I am qualified to teach low and high intensity dance fitness as well as strong which is a challenging high intensity interval workout for fit men and women.  So… I make people glow.

Q: What made you get into that line of work?

A: My mom.  She is a true example of what a strong woman really is.  She always encouraged me to look after my health and be active as it is the best defence against aging and illness.

Q: Describe the most memorable experience that you have had in your line of work.

A: I had to give a member a first workout every day as she had no short term memory. After months of re-introducing myself and taking her around the circuit as if it was her first time, I signaled with my hands to show her what to do next and she responded with:  “I know! Toes up!”  It felt like such a breakthrough! It made me realize that what I do at Curves is way more important than what I realize. It’s not just about the physical improvement but memory and thinking skills too.

Q: What do you do to unwind when you are not working?

A: I love to spend time with my fur-children. Go for a walk or take them to the beach.

Q: What is your motto in life?

A: Health is priceless, happiness a choice and exercise, a catalyst.

Q: What makes you happy?

A: Walking hand in hand with my husband with my feet in the sea-sand and my fur-children walking alongside us.

Q: What make you angry?

A: Animal abuse and littering.

Q: What do you think about the youth of South Africa?  Do you have any advice for them?

A: Exercise and educate yourself about how to read food labels!  Recognise your bad behaviours and warning signs, stop making excuses to why you shouldn’t be healthy and start finding reasons that inspire you as to why you should be healthy – despite your circumstances. Be part of the solution to a healthy South Africa.

Q: What do you like most about Port Alfred?

A: The lifestyle… here we can take five minutes to get to the beach, have a picnic for lunch and get back to the office within an hour.

Q: If you could change one thing about Port Alfred…

A: I would make fresh green vegetables compulsory on every plate.

Q: What is your favourite music of all time?

A: Ben Howard.

Q: Who would you like to take on Amazing Race given the opportunity?

A: Definitely my handsome husband. He is such an adventurer!

Q: Three wishes for South Africa…

A: Animal cruelty should have severe consequences; recycling should be a major priority; clean air, water and food free from chemicals and harmful toxins.