Ageing Better on the Dance Floor
Published on 31 July 2026 11:04 AM
As part of our Act Now Age Better campaign, we discovered a local dance fitness class that’s keeping older people moving, motivated and connected.
Every week, behind the doors of the GL3 Community Hub in Churchdown, an inspiring group of older people spend 45 minutes keeping fit and active by dancing to the latest tracks by artists like Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars, Pitbull and more.
They’re taking part in a Dance Fitness Gold class led by the wonderful Ruth from Cath’s Classes. For more than 10 years Ruth has been helping people of all abilities enjoy a gentle and fun way to stay active, build confidence and make friends.
As part of our Act Now Age Better campaign, we’ve been exploring ways to keep active and we couldn’t resist finding out more, so a few members of the Age UK Gloucestershire team went along to experience a class for themselves.
We discovered a group of around 40 older people, including one remarkable dancer aged 83, dancing with enthusiasm and energy, and thoroughly enjoying themselves. We did our best to keep up with them, but it was a challenge!
By the end of the class just like the participants, we couldn’t stop smiling we’d enjoyed ourselves so much and our bodies were definitely feeling the benefit too. It’s easy to understand why people return week after week.
Endorphins released and spirits lifted, we made our way to the Community Hub cafe where some of the group continued their morning with a good chat over a coffee, highlighting that Ruth’s sessions are more than just an exercise class.
When the music stops, the post-class social is just as important to those who take part.
Long time attendee, Judith explained:
“Everyone here has faced challenges at one time or another, but this is such a supportive group there’s always someone to talk to or help you. I’ve made some great friends and even when I couldn’t take part in classes for a while because of my health issues, I still came along to meet everyone for coffee afterwards. It really helped me get through everything and now I can join in again.”
Whether you’re a seasoned expert or convinced you have two left feet, a warm welcome awaits at Ruth’s Dance Fitness Gold classes. Find out more by visiting:
Small Steps Can Make a Big Difference
Let’s change how we age by making the move to a more active life. How would you like to? We’ve got some suggestions here