Shillong: True North has emerged as a premier wellness destination in Shillong following its expansion to Lapalang. Inaugurated by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma in July 2025, the facility features a 25-meter multi-lane swimming pool, a training pool, a dedicated children's area, a cardio track, and a gym. The project was realized through support from the CM ELEVATE initiative.
Founding partner Gary Lamare, who famously became the first person from Meghalaya to scale Mount Everest, designed the center to emphasize early fitness. Lamare believes training should begin as early as six months to support physical and cognitive growth. He notes that swimming helps infants develop limb coordination and essential neural pathways. "We are trying to catch them young," Lamare explains.
Safety remains a priority at the center, with certified coach Ezra Kharsyntiew leading lessons that focus on breath control and water survival skills. According to Kharsyntiew, formal instruction can decrease drowning risks by up to 88 percent. Local parents are increasingly enrolling their toddlers, noting the natural affinity children have for the water.
Beyond physical training, the center serves as a hub for lifelong wellness. Lamare highlights that the therapeutic benefits of the pool extend to adults, helping users manage stress and maintain energy levels. With high-standard amenities including a steam room and hot tub, True North continues to set a new benchmark for fitness infrastructure in the city.
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