A new community-led fitness initiative is helping Thornton residents connect, move, and feel good \u2014 together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thornton Community Fitness by Alex was launched this month with the aim of promoting health, wellness, and neighbourly connection through inclusive outdoor workouts at Silveroak Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Spokesperson Julia Slade says the idea was born out of a shared passion for both fitness and community. \u201cMy partner, Alex Mateus, is a qualified personal trainer and nutrition coach. He attended Rondebosch Boys\u2019 High School on a rugby scholarship (E\u201920) before playing international club rugby in Ireland and the United States. After sustaining multiple injuries, Alex wanted to remain involved in sport and community,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He went on to work as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for Rugby Academy Ireland and later managed a private gym in Dublin, where he worked predominantly with individuals aged 50 and above \u2014 many of whom were new to exercise or recovering from injuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAfter returning to South Africa, we wanted to create something that brings people together through exercise \u2014 not just for fitness, but to help build a stronger, friendlier, and more connected community,\u201d says Julia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The free sessions are open to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. \u201cWhether someone\u2019s a complete beginner or already active, there\u2019s always a way to join in,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Community sessions are currently being held on Saturday mornings 11 and 18 October at 09:00 and 10:00, at Silveroak Park. The organisers plan to continue hosting regular sessions once a permanent indoor venue is secured, in partnership with the Thornton Ratepayers and Residents Association (TRRA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each class includes a gentle warm-up, a workout adaptable for all levels, and a cool-down and stretching session. \u201cThe focus is on participation, connection, and positivity \u2014 not competition,\u201d Julia explains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The initiative has already attracted strong local interest, with over 70 residents expressing enthusiasm and attending the first meet-and-greet session. \u201cThe community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive \u2014 people are really excited about having something uplifting and accessible close to home.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thornton Community Fitness by Alex has also received support from BOS Ice Tea, which has come on board as its first local collaborator, providing refreshments for the launch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Residents who\u2019d like to join can contact Julia via WhatsApp at 081 681 2497 to be added to the community group and access the consent form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOur goal is simple,\u201d says Julia. \u201cWe want to help people move their bodies, meet their neighbours, and feel good \u2014 together.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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