Cobus's journey is one of true grit, determination and faith. In 2012 Cobus was diagnosed with reoccurring Guillane Barre Syndrome, a rare, serious condition of the peripheral nervous system. Cobus was told that he would know longer be able to train, and that swimming was his only alternative. Refusing to accept that he had to let go of his passion, Cobus returned once again to the gym. Amazingly and to the astonishment of others his health returned to normal.

In 2013 Cobus was struck by yet another rare and this time an incurable syndrome names SPS (Stiff Persona Syndrome), a condition which makes your body involuntarily shake. Cobus had to spend two weeks in hospital attached to polygam drips. Cobus was told to avoid stressful situations that could cause a flare up of his condition...as we know life is out of our hands.

Ride the wave...

In 2014 Cobus's health took another dip. An MRI scan revealed a lesion on his brain caused by the SPS...further stresses presented themselves in Cobus's path..but still Cobus continued to train.

REDUNDANCY...with every door that closes another one opens...

A month after the lesion was diagnosed Cobus was made redundant. Still Cobus did not allow his circumstances come between him and his training.

Every cloud has a silver lining...

Cobus found his path. His journey led him to Personal Training and Body Building. Despite all the odds Cobus trained and competed in 4 professional Body Building Shows and placed 3rd and 2nd on a provincial level. Cobus's amazing physique placed 6th at the WFF Australia.

We feel blessed to welcome Cobus to The Health and Active Team. Cobus will be on the gym floor working from August 11th 2015

Finally in the words of the inspirer:

"I am writing this to anyone out there that's down and out and has dreams that they want to make come true, to stand up get up get going, life waits for no one. No matter how deep and dark the place you are in now, find that light, find that strength to get up and get going one day at a time. You will get out on the other side just make that decision stand up and GET GOING. Nothing will get me down. Thank you to everyone who believed in me and Thank God for giving me the strength to get up and get going everyday".

Cobus Briedenhann