Posted on: Friday 15 May 2026
Men living in some parts of Torfaen have an average healthy life expectancy of just 54 years of age.
To help improve this, the council's health, sport and fitness team is asking men aged between 40 and 60 to tell them what exercise they like doing, what motivates them and what puts them off.
Their feedback will then be used to help shape a new community health and wellbeing programme.
To take part - click on the link below to complete a short survey by Tuesday June 30.
Ben Jeffries, sports development officer, said: “We know that men in their 40s and 50s can face a range of pressures but are often the least likely to access traditional support. This survey is about listening first, understanding what people actually want and need in their community.
“By working together with men and local groups, we can create a long-lasting programme that feels relevant and accessible, bringing men together to support one another while improving their physical and overall wellbeing."
The new programme will follow on from the success of the council's If You Go I Go programme for women, and the Thrive initiative, for men and women aged over 60.
Over 400 women have taken part in If You Go I Go since it launched in 2017, some of whom who have gone on to set up their own exercise classes.
Around 300 people have taken part in Thrive classes since it began in 2024.
Research show health challenges such as stress, low mood, exhaustion and long-term conditions can impact men in their 40s and 50s, rather than later in life.
Data from Public Health Wales also links loneliness to poorer mental health, reduced well-being and lower resilience, particularly among men, who are often less likely to talk openly or seek support.
For information about local sports or exercise groups, visit Connect Torfaen.