A new fitness convention intended to provide “an unintimidating environment for adults of any age or fitness level” is launching in Edmonton in early 2017.
On Saturday, a professional BASE jumper leapt from a downtown skyscraper to signify the many Edmontonians who will “jump into their fitness journey” at the convention.
“It was fantastic. It was really awesome to see Edmonton allow us to organize a legal BASE jump off of an awesome building like this,” jumper Peter Kozak said after his leap from the Pearl Tower, a 35-storey luxury residential tower at the western end of downtown Edmonton.
From takeoff to touchdown, Kozak was in the air for 34 seconds.
Kozak has jumped more than 4,000 times and will be one of the presenters at the Great Canadian Fitfest, which takes place Feb. 4 and 5 at the Edmonton Expo Centre.
Kozak will discuss his journey to becoming a professional BASE jumper in one of the interactive information sessions offered throughout the fitness-inspired weekend.
BASE jumping is parachuting from a fixed structure or cliff instead of doing traditional skydiving.
The Fitfest event will include activities to try for every level of fitness, including group classes, a ninja warrior obstacle course, acro yoga and expert presentations.
There will be presentations from people in the fitness industry, including sports therapists, psychologists, and nutritionists. There will also be booths showcasing active wear, fitness supplies, other sports, health products, wellness services, food and beverages.