In a major boost to fitness education in Nagaland, the Elite Strength Gym under Varsity Livingstone was inaugurated at Livingstone Foundation College on Monday. The initiative is being recognised as the state’s first fitness educational institute featuring Spartan- fitness education training and aligned with one of India’s leading fitness education platforms.
Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA and NPF leader, as chief guest in his address focused on the fundamental importance of health in human life. He stressed that in today’s fast-paced world, people often prioritize wealth, status and professional success over their well-being, a mistake that can have long-term consequences. He underscored that health is the foundation upon which all achievements rest, stating that without physical and mental well-being, success loses its meaning.
Drawing from real-life examples and personal experiences, he pointed out that even the most successful individuals cannot enjoy their accomplishments if their health deteriorates. He encouraged the audience to treat health not as an expense but as a lifelong investment that yields lasting benefits in the form of energy, productivity and happiness. Addressing the youth, he emphasized the importance of discipline, regular exercise and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, while also advising individuals to adopt age-appropriate fitness routines.
He further highlighted the significance of institutions like Varsity Livingstone in shaping future generations, stating that such platforms not only promote physical fitness but also instil values of discipline, resilience and self-confidence. He urged students to focus on skill development alongside academic learning, noting that the modern world increasingly values practical knowledge and specialized skills. According to him, the institute has the potential to empower youth with professional qualifications in fitness education, opening avenues for employment and entrepreneurship.
Guest of honour, Editor-in-Chief of Nagaland Post, Geoffery Yaden, while congratulating the college shared personal reflections from his early years when fitness infrastructure was scarce. He recalled how aspiring bodybuilders had little access to equipment, professional trainers, or proper guidance, often relying on makeshift tools and sheer determination. Drawing from these experiences, he emphasized that perseverance, consistency and mental strength are the true foundations of fitness. He highlighted that fitness is not merely physical but deeply connected to the mind, explaining that when the mind is disciplined, the body follows, ultimately shaping one’s personality and outlook in life. He encouraged young people to cultivate resilience, maintain focus and remain committed to their goals despite challenges, noting that discipline learned through fitness can positively influence every aspect of life.
In a detailed address, chairman of Livingstone Foundation International, Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema, highlighted the long-term vision behind establishing the facility. He emphasized that education today must go beyond conventional classroom learning and focus on skill development and holistic growth. Stressing the shift from marks-based evaluation to skill-based competencies, he noted that institutions must adapt to global trends where practical knowledge and individual capability are valued more than rote learning. He also encouraged students to make full use of the infrastructure, pointing out that such facilities can open doors to professional careers, entrepreneurship and international opportunities in the fitness and wellness industry. He further remarked that Nagaland has immense potential and such initiatives can help bridge the gap between local talent and global standards.
The programme also featured a guest posing display by Team Moa Ozukum and a powerlifting demonstration by Chingang Konyak, showcasing discipline, strength and the technical aspects of fitness training.
The gym was formally inaugurated by the chief guest and guest of honour, followed by a dedicatory prayer and blessing by Victoria Roughton of Spirit of Faith Church.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Varnon Fernandez and invocation prayer was offered by Zhimoholi, Chaplain of Livingstone Foundation International School.
On the sidelines of the inauguration, Sports Director Agapeto Achumi interacted with the media and shared key details about the gym’s membership structure, training programmes and unique features.
Achumi emphasized that the gym is not limited to students alone but is open to the general public, particularly within the Dimapur area. However, he noted that students of Livingstone Foundation institutions are given special consideration, with significantly subsidized membership fees. He further added that church workers, including pastors and associate pastors are extended free access to the facility, subject to basic registration and verification.
Highlighting the educational aspect of the initiative, Achumi revealed that the gym has partnered with Spartan Institute of Fitness to offer professional courses for individuals interested in pursuing fitness as a career. These courses will be conducted offline and are open to both students and non-students. Additionally, a dedicated “Elite Strength Programme” has been introduced, aimed primarily at students but also accessible to outsiders.
Apart from these structured programmes, the gym will function like a standard fitness centre, offering walk-in memberships and personal training services. Achumi informed that the facility is staffed by experienced trainers, including a title holder coach for men, and head coach for women, along with several other trainers.
Speaking on what sets the facility apart, Achumi clarified that the distinction lies not merely in equipment but in its specialized focus on strength training. The gym has been designed to support structured strength-based programmes aligned with modern training standards.
He also elaborated on the broader concept behind the varsity model, stating that the programme has been adapted from the United States and incorporates a faith-based approach to fitness. The model aims to develop not only physical strength but also character, discipline and spiritual growth among students. He added that such a structured varsity fitness programme is being introduced for the first time in the region, making it a pioneering initiative in Northeast India.
Achumi further disclosed that students have the option to integrate professional fitness courses into their academic pathway, enhancing their skill set and career prospects. He also hinted at the possibility of similar programmes being introduced in other institutions in the future.
Providing details on membership, he stated that the registration fee is fixed, while monthly fees are kept affordable for students and moderately priced for non-students, ensuring accessibility across different sections of society.
The initiative, he said, is aimed at building a culture of fitness that is inclusive, structured and professionally guided, while also promoting discipline and holistic development among the youth.