Posted on: Friday 8 May 2026
A new men’s weightlifting group is helping older residents improve their physical fitness, mobility and mental wellbeing through weekly training sessions and peer support.
Around 15 men currently attend SSC Weightlifting Club in Pontypool every Thursday morning, taking part in free‑weight exercises, cardio workouts and tailored strength training.
The group was launched as part of Torfaen Council’s Thrive programme, which supports residents aged 60 and over to stay active within their communities, helping to improve long‑term health and wellbeing.
Sessions are led by fitness coach and business owner Meghan Dixon, who designs programmes to meet individual needs and ability levels.
Among those attending is Jeff Jones, 81, from Pontypool, who joined the programme following a series of health challenges.
Jeff said: “My health started to decline around 14 years ago after suffering multiple heart attacks. When my wife passed away in 2022, I found myself in a bad place,” he said.
“I was introduced to the Men’s Thrive project, which has helped both my fitness and my mindset. I’m now feeling much more positive about life, and being around a great bunch of guys really helps.”
Mike Hazard, 71, a retired resident from Cwmbran, joined the club in January to improve his mobility after years of being inactive. He said: “I started attending the strength and fitness group in January after a sedentary lifestyle.
“Our trainer Meghan is a real professional and focuses on building our core strength, balance and overall fitness. I’ve seen a big improvement in my general health and wellbeing.
“An added bonus is the social side as we meet for coffee after training and that’s something I really look forward to.”
Ben Jeffries, Torfaen Council’s Health, Sport and Fitness Officer, said:
“It’s been fantastic to see the success of the group. We’re seeing clear physical benefits in how the men go about their daily lives, but also strong social benefits.
“They’ve built a real bond since November, supporting each other in the gym, meeting for coffee and staying connected through their WhatsApp group.
“This project reflects the council’s role as an enabler, helping communities take the lead in running activities and supporting one another. It’s exactly what we aim to achieve through the Torfaen Deal – with the council, businesses and communities working together to improve health outcomes.”
The men’s group follows the success of a Thrive women’s weightlifting class launched last year at the same venue.
Participants now run the group independently and have since organised day trips and regular social gatherings, helping to strengthen friendships and reduce social isolation.
Men who would like to get involved are welcome to attend the weightlifting group every Thursday from 10am to 11am. For more information, email
ben.jeffries@torfaen.gov.uk or call 01633 628963.