Posted on: Wednesday 28 May 2025
Every Tuesday at 10am, a group of women aged 60 and over gather at the Suki Strength Club gym in Pontypool - not just to lift weights, but to lift each other up.
What started as a fitness class has become a powerful source of well-being and friendship for around 15 women who attend weekly.
Meryl Young, 71 from Cwmbran, who has been coming along with her friend Caroline since it started six months ago, said: “I never imagined I’d be lifting weights at my age, but here I am!”
“Prior to this, I was experiencing aches and pains in my shoulder and knee, but since doing regular weights and other aerobic exercises, it’s helped to alleviate them. My balance has improved, I feel stronger, and I’ve made some wonderful friends. It’s given me a new lease on life.”
Christine Vorres, 66, from Griffithstown, said: “One of the things I was surprised to learn was that I couldn’t get down and up off the floor easily, but since training my core, my mobility has improved, and I can now do it much more without using my hands.
“I really look forward to Tuesdays now as it’s not just about the exercise - it’s the laughter, the support, and the sense of belonging.”
The weightlifting class is part of Torfaen Council’s Thrive campaign, which this May celebrates its first anniversary.
Since launching, Thrive has grown to support 15 active groups across Torfaen, all aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of residents aged 60 and over.
Some of these sessions include yoga, chair-based exercise, spotlight dance and racket ball.
To date, more than 200 people have benefited from the programme.
Cllr Fiona Cross, Torfaen Council's Executive Member for Communities, said: “Through Thrive we’ve seen people grow in confidence, improve their health, and build lasting friendships. It’s a testament to what community-led wellbeing can achieve.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to the County Plan’s wellbeing priorities—supporting healthier lifestyles, reducing loneliness, and enabling people to live well for longer.”
To find out more about Thrive classes and how to get involved, visit Connect Torfaen.