In a heartwarming initiative, the Jamia Usmania mosque in Heaton Village, Bradford, is hosting weekly Pilates classes that not only enhance physical fitness but also foster camaraderie among its attendees. Following midday prayers, a group of elderly men gathers to engage in a 45-minute session aimed at improving their overall wellbeing. The programme, which has gained unexpected popularity after a TikTok promotion garnered nearly two million views, is paving the way for future classes for women and youth.
A Unique Approach to Fitness
As the afternoon sun struggles to break through the clouds, the atmosphere inside the mosque transforms. Following their spiritual commitments, a diverse assembly of men, primarily aged between 50 and 80, descends to the gym area, ready to embrace exercise that blends physical activity with community spirit. Zafar Kayani, the 69-year-old instructor, emphasises the importance of this initiative. “They’re coming here for their spiritual health. Then they’re getting that physical exercise and mental wellbeing while connecting with each other,” he explains.
The response to the programme has been overwhelming. Initially launched in three mosques throughout Bradford, the classes attracted a modest number of participants. However, the viral TikTok video sparked widespread interest, leading to attendance surging to nearly 30 men per session. The impact has reached beyond local borders, with inquiries from mosques in far-flung places like Malaysia and Canada eager to replicate the initiative.
Building Connections and Improving Health
This unique fitness offering has created a safe and comfortable environment for participants. Mohammed Ilyas, the mosque’s general secretary, notes the significance of the setting: “They feel comfortable in the environment. They come to pray, and after their prayers, they can just join in the class in whatever they’re wearing.”
The session begins with gentle stretches, gradually escalating to more demanding exercises. Participants have reported notable improvements in both their physical and mental health. Mohammed Salim, a 66-year-old retired shopkeeper, shares his experience: “Before, I used to feel aches all over my body. But since I started walking and exercising, it’s much better. I recently had a pacemaker fitted, but I don’t feel anything because I keep active.”
Similarly, Tahir Butt, 74, who has undergone double knee replacement surgery, reflects on the benefits he has derived from the classes. “I wouldn’t have thought of doing these exercises before because of my condition,” he admits.
Kayani is optimistic about the broader implications of this initiative, particularly concerning public health. Recent government health data from 2024 indicates that men from Asian backgrounds are less likely to engage in regular physical activity compared to the general population. “When they start, there are aches and pains,” he notes. “But after a few weeks, they’re doing it with ease. This is beneficial for the NHS. If fewer people are visiting doctors or attending hospital appointments, it reduces costs.”
Laughter and Community Spirit
Despite the focus on physical fitness, the sessions maintain a light-hearted atmosphere. Kayani’s witty comments and encouragement—referring to the group as “men of steel”—keep spirits high. At the end of each session, he invites participants to close their eyes and envision a serene holiday setting, prompting a moment of calm that ends with laughter as he brings them back to their reality in rainy Bradford.
Akhtar Malik, manager of the Bradford Youth Development Partnership, highlights the social benefits of the classes. “The key thing is being happy and laughing,” he says. “It motivates them to keep coming back week after week. We’re providing a social platform where they can meet others, forming a friendship group.”
The success of these Pilates classes has ignited a vision for Ilyas and his team to transform the mosque into a vibrant community hub. Plans are underway to introduce Pilates classes for women and youth clubs aimed at engaging younger generations. “We want to make the mosque a welcoming space for everyone, not just the elders,” Ilyas asserts. “We aim to revive community activities that were once commonplace but have since disappeared.”
Why it Matters
This initiative at Jamia Usmania mosque is more than just a fitness programme; it represents a significant step towards enhancing community cohesion and addressing public health challenges. By creating an inclusive environment where men can improve their physical health while forging friendships, the mosque is redefining its role in the community. This model could serve as a blueprint for other places of worship looking to foster similar connections, contributing to a healthier, more engaged society.
