The Nunga community of Port Augusta makes up 15 per cent of the local population, but their rate of hospitalisation is more than double that.
Part of the reason is a general lack of fitness and high smoking rates, contributing to chronic illnesses.
But it's hard encourage physical activity for a whole range of reasons – there's a general perception that it's "shame" to been seen walking anywhere, and it can be intimidating being the only Aboriginal person in a gym.
To counter that, ten locals have been offered scholarships to become personal trainers, acting as role models and providing a soft entry to the world of fitness.
It's already making a difference - proving that the gymnasium isn't just for beefy blokes, 81 year old Faith Thomas is working out a few times a week and 63 year old Heather Laughton says the exercise has helped bring down her blood pressure. She's even considering a later life career change to become a Personal Trainer herself.
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