Hundreds of Alexandra residents gathered at Kwabhekilanga Sports Ground on 20 September for the second Alex Step and Share community wellness event, a local initiative that combines walking, aerobics and social activities to promote physical and mental health, organisers reported.
Low-cost, community-centred approach
The programme was created to make wellness accessible within the community, with organisers stressing activities are deliberately low-impact and inexpensive so that a wide range of people can join. Co-founder Sentle Monaise said the initiative aims to strengthen social connections while encouraging healthier lifestyles.
"The event plays an imperative role of bringing people together through these activities," Monaise said, according to reporting.
Organisers described the sessions as opportunities not only for exercise but for meeting neighbours, learning new activities and building friendships. After formal activities, attendees often share fruit brought from home, a practice organisers said is intended to keep the event affordable while reinforcing community bonds.
Activities and aims
The day included a mix of walking, yoga-style stretches, aerobics led by a local coach and playful activities such as sack racing and tug-of-war. Fitness coach Sibusiso Qwabe led an aerobic session and emphasised the programme’s role in addressing stress and depression through movement and social contact.
"There are a lot of things that people go through. Some people have stress, some people are going through depression, so we want to exercise and socialise with different people," Qwabe said, as reported.
Organisers said the choice of walking and yoga-like exercises reflects an intention to include older participants and those with limited mobility, since these activities are low-impact and easier to sustain regularly than higher-intensity alternatives.
- Physical benefits: increased activity, improved cardiovascular health and mobility.
- Mental health benefits: reduced stress, opportunities to talk and socialise, potential alleviation of depressive symptoms.
- Social benefits: building neighbourhood ties, sharing resources, combating isolation.
Event snapshot
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | 20 September |
| Location | Kwabhekilanga Sports Ground, Alexandra |
| Main activities | Walking, aerobics, yoga-style stretches, community games |
Organisers reported that by keeping the event free or low-cost and encouraging participants to bring and share fruit, they can sustain attendance among people who have limited disposable income. The emphasis on accessible activities also helps remove barriers for older adults and those with chronic conditions who may be deterred by high-intensity exercise.
Implications for public health
Community-based programmes like Alex Step and Share align with broader public health goals of preventing non-communicable diseases and addressing mental health through early, community-level interventions. While such initiatives cannot substitute for clinical care, they can complement formal services by encouraging regular movement and reducing social isolation — two recognised contributors to better health outcomes.
Health professionals generally recommend community engagement and regular moderate physical activity as part of a holistic approach to wellbeing. Readers should consult their local clinic or a healthcare professional before beginning a new exercise routine, particularly if they have existing health conditions.
Organisers said they plan to continue hosting events to keep momentum, grow participation and foster stronger neighbourhood ties. The initiative’s combination of physical activity, socialising and affordability illustrates a grassroots approach to health promotion within an urban township setting.
For those interested in joining or supporting similar community wellness efforts, local clinics, community centres or municipal sports departments can provide information on inclusive activities and resources.
