Posted on: Friday 10 July 2026
The Welsh Government’s Deputy Minister for Public and Preventative Health has visited a community exercise programme in Pontypool as part of an announcement about physical health guidance.
Nerys Evans MS, spent time with the men's 60+ weightlifting group for men at SSC gym, which is helping to improve their physical and mental health.
According to new guidance from the UK's four Chief Medical Officers, all forms of physical activity contributes towards the recommended 150 minutes of activity per week, including walking up the stairs.
New evidence also shows everyone benefits from physical activity no matter their fitness level, including those with long-term conditions.
Ms Evans, said: "These new guidelines are a reminder that every step counts to improve our health. Helping people move more is central to our cross government preventative health approach."
"It's brilliant to see community-led initiatives such as the Thrive Over-60s Weightlifting Group in action. It's come from the community, and that's why it's so popular and well understood. It's exactly the kind of grassroots approach we want to see to help people improve their physical health, stay active and live well."
Professor Isabel Oliver, Chief Medical Officer for Wales, said: “The evidence is clear: being physically active is important for our health and every little bit counts. Going from doing no activity to doing some is one of the best things you can do for your health.
“Walking, cycling, dancing, sport and taking the stairs all count. Lasting change is most likely when exercise is enjoyable, useful or part of your everyday routine.
“The latest evidence also shows that it is important that we take part in a range of different activities including muscle strengthening activities and balance and flexibility exercises.”
The men's weightlifting sessions are part of the council's Thrive fitness programme for over 60s, and were set up following the success of the women's sessions.
Ben Jeffries, Torfaen Council’s Health, Sport and Fitness Officer, said: “It was great to welcome the Deputy Minister for Public and Preventative Health to our session this week.
"Our approach under the Torfaen Deal is helping to increase people's access to activities in their local area, thanks to a growing network of health champions. They are being supported to develop spin off sports and fitness groups, having taken part in our popular programmes such as Thrive over 60’s, If You Go I Go initiative and Torfaen Take a Stroll.”
Watch the men's 60+ weightlifting group in action here.
To find out more about all Torfaen Health, Sport and Fitness related activities and events, visit the Connect Torfaen website.