Exercise class: Zumba

Our Zumba programme supports 60 women in a year living with long-term health conditions, disabilities, older age, low income, poverty, and language barriers. Through fun, inclusive, women-only sessions delivered with music and encouragement, participants have experienced positive changes in their health and wellbeing.

Participants told us that the programme has helped them to:

Lose weight and improve their overall health and fitness.
Reduce their blood pressure and support better health management.
Improve flexibility, mobility, and confidence in being physically active.
Build motivation to exercise regularly through supportive group sessions.
Make new friends and develop regular walking groups outside the programme.
Feel less isolated and more connected to their community.
Enjoy exercise because the sessions are fun, welcoming, and delivered in a women-only environment.
Feel happier and more confident, with many saying they would not have achieved these changes without the support and encouragement of the group.
Stay motivated because exercising together feels easier and more enjoyable than exercising alone.

Case studies

Improving Health, Confidence and Social Connection

Miss X is a 76-year-old woman from an Arab background who joined our Zumba programme while recovering from mobility difficulties. She was experiencing stiffness, low mood, reduced confidence, and social isolation, which affected her ability to leave the house and stay active.

With encouragement and support, Miss X began attending our women-only Zumba sessions regularly and made positive changes to her diet. Over time, she became more confident, increased her attendance to twice a week, and became more engaged with the group.

Impact:

Lost 6 kg and improved her overall health and wellbeing.
Improved mobility, flexibility, and reduced stiffness through regular exercise.
Increased confidence and motivation to stay physically active.
Developed new friendships and a stronger sense of belonging.
Reduced isolation and improved emotional well-being.
Became more active outside the programme, including enjoying regular walks.
Reported feeling happier, healthier, and more confident in her daily life.