Hi. My name is Andrew Thompson. I've worked on human bodies for 30+ years.
Working in the health, fitness, and beauty industries, men of all ages and demographics cross my path.
Increasingly, they complain that they're fat or unfit, and don't know where to begin.
That's where this pet project comes into play. I love seeing people trying to improve their life quality, and if I can help, I'm happy to.
Note: This service is free to any Man Thing client. It is simply the provision of a meet-up point and time for anyone, 18 years or older, who wishes to join me, and possibly others, in fitness activities.
If you choose to participate, you do so on the condition that your safety is entirely up to you. Neither I, nor Man Thing, offer any promises or guarantees for your safety, nor take any responsibility for your welfare or property.
Getting fit is easier with friends
Virtually all studies show that people who exercise with others, will train for much longer, are more likely to attend sessions, and are less likely to give up on their fitness goals.
The fitness activities I take part in regularly are cross-country mountain biking, kayaking, gym, and road cycling.
Most are held in Rockhampton, with a few at Mount Morgan and Capricorn Coast as well.
So that's it. You're out of excuses. 😁 You'll find heaps of info below.
Call me on 4926 7778 or 0422 276 202 if you have any other questions.
Have a brilliant day,
Andrew Thompson.
FAQ ★ Thommo's Social Fitness
When are fitness activities held?
Talk to me on your next visit. Let me know that you're interested in getting fit, what your aims are, and when you're available.
I'm not into big groups and clubs.
Nor am I. Typical group size is 2 to 4 people. It might even be just you and me.
I'm worried I don't have the skills.
Don't stress. We were all noobs once. You'll never be pressed to do anything beyond your abilities. And, you're a grown-up. You can always say no.
What level of fitness do I need?
You don't need to be super-fit. Obviously, check with your doctor before commencing any new sports activity.
You'll find that your fitness and skill increases with subsequent activities, especially if you're taking other steps in your life to get healthier.
Is Thommos' Social Fitness a new concept?
No. I've been running social rides on the roads and trails of Central Queensland, both privately and as a volunteer for Rockhampton Mountain Bike Club, Cycle4Life, and Cycle CQ since 2016.
What do I need to bring?
Each type of activity has its own requirements:
Mountain bike social rides
- You understand and accept that your safety is entirely up to you. Neither I, nor Man Thing, offer any promises for your safety, nor take any responsibility for your welfare or property.
- Your bike needs to be mechanically sound. Gears, tyres, brakes should all work well.
- Helmet and closed shoes.
- Knee and elbow protection are worthwhile, but not essential.
- If it's night, you need two lights, one for your helmet and one for your handlebars, at least 700 lumens each. Plus a tail light if any part of the ride is on road.
- Mosquito repellent highly recommended
- Water bottle, basic tools for repairs, spare tube, a pump, phone, and personal first aid kit for treating minor injuries. Don't rely on others to get you out of trouble.
- You should have at least some experience riding on mountain bike trails, and be thoroughly familiar with your bike's operation.
Road cycling social rides
- You understand and accept that your safety is entirely up to you. Neither I, nor Man Thing, offer any promises for your safety, nor take any responsibility for your welfare or property.
- Your bike needs to be mechanically sound. Gears, tyres, brakes should all work well.
- Helmet and closed shoes.
- A fully charged front and rear light.
- Mosquito repellent highly recommended
- Water bottle, basic tools for repairs, spare tube, a pump, phone, and personal first aid kit for treating minor injuries. Don't rely on others to get you out of trouble.
- You should be street-smart and follow the road rules. We'll sometimes ride on the footpath or through a park but we don't run red lights or make motorists hate us.
- I'm not a fan of bunch-rides and tight drafting. Seen too many crashes. Keep a good space between riders.
Social Kayaking
- You understand and accept that your safety is entirely up to you. Neither I, nor Man Thing, offer any promises for your safety, nor take any responsibility for your welfare or property.
- Kayak design doesn't matter. Sit-in or sit-on is fine. Rudderless or retractable rudders are best to avoid tangling in reeds or hitting submerged logs or rocks. I keep it simple with a plastic rudderless surf ski.
- Activities are held in creeks, lakes, or within a few hundred metres of the beach.
- Recommended kit: Life jacket, sun screen, hat, sunglasses, waterproof container for electronic items and food, drinking water. 500-1000ml of water for every 10kms is a good guide.
- Make sure your paddle isn't cracked or broken.
- Dress for comfort. Again, I keep it simple - speedos, rashie, hat, gloves, aqua shoes.
Social Gym Sessions
- You understand and accept that your safety is entirely up to you. Neither I, nor Man Thing, offer any promises for your safety, nor take any responsibility for your welfare or property.
- I rarely post gym events as they're too frequent. Talk to me if you want a gym bud.
- I use Goodlife at Frenchville. It's 24 hour and has good facilities. I suggest you don't sign up long-term until you know you'll stick with it.
- Go to at least one PT session with them to learn the basics and get some advice.
- Bring a towel. Wear proper shoes, not crocs or thongs. Dress comfortably in clothes that don't restrict your range of movement.
- Sessions are weight and resistance, 4 times a week - 2 glutes days and 2 upper body days. That's just me. You can do as few or as many sessions as you want.
- I ride to and from the gym, so that's my cardio warmup. If you want to join me, cool. If you prefer treadmill, do it before I get there.
- Circuit training and super-sets work well, which gets us done in 30 to 45 minutes.