Community-led exercise in Cornholme

IMT Forever CIC, known as Inspire. Motivate. Transform. (IMT), is a social enterprise supporting local communities to improve physical activity, mental health and wellbeing. Based in Cornholme, Todmorden, IMT delivers classes, workshops and community events across the area, from Hebden Bridge to Bacup, helping people strengthen connections and lead healthier lives.

A key focus of IMT's work is supporting older adults and people with mobility challenges through gentle, coordinated and enjoyable movement to music.

Since late 2023, IMT has delivered a Keep Fit & Active class at Vale Baptist Church for people aged 50 and over.

Through conversations with residents and observations of the growth of the 'Keep Active' group, the organisation identified a need for an additional accessible activity in Cornholme, aimed at older adults, people living with long-term health conditions, those new to exercise, and anyone looking to move more as part of their weekly routine.

With funding from Active Calderdale, IMT launched a 12-month pilot at the Old Library in Cornholme, combining gentle physical activity with opportunities to socialise over a cup of tea after each session.

Shaped by the Community

The new class was developed using a community-led approach. Eight local residents took part in a focus group, helping to shape the type of activity they wanted to see in their area.

Rebecca contacted me to say she was going to open an exercise class in Cornholme and would be having a meeting to discuss if people felt the need for one in our area. Having attended an exercise group with Rebecca before which I thoroughly enjoyed, I attended. We discussed what we wanted to see in the program.

Lesley - 82, Cornholme resident

Their feedback inspired the creation of a Gentle Stretch and Relaxation class, designed to help participants gently awaken the body, build balance, mobility, strength, and stamina, and enjoy stretching and relaxation in a supportive environment suitable for all abilities. Participants can choose seated or standing options, ensuring everyone can take part comfortably and confidently.

I didn’t really do any activities. I have a bad knee so struggle to get about. Rebecca’s gentle exercise is really good. I can do most sitting down which really helps me.

Alison - 70, Cornholme resident

Alongside improving physical health, mobility and wellbeing, the sessions were designed to reduce isolation and strengthen community connections. The informal social time after each class has become an important part of the experience, allowing participants to build friendships, support one another and feel more connected to their local community.

Overcoming Barriers

One of the biggest challenges was reaching people who would benefit most from the sessions and encouraging them to give it a try. While posters and social media helped raise awareness, they could not always communicate the welcoming and supportive atmosphere of the classes.

Working closely with trusted local partners, including Staying Well, Age Concern Todmorden, care coordinators and social prescribers from Todmorden Health Centre, proved invaluable. Personal recommendations and face-to-face conversations helped build confidence and encouraged people to take part.

I heard about the class at Cornholme Old Library via word of mouth and an Age Concern Flyer.

Miranda - 69, Todmorden resident

I heard about Rebecca’s classes at our GP Practice. It was ideal for me because I needed some exercise outside of home and to meet other people.

Rena - 66, Cornholme resident

As expected, attendance occasionally fluctuated due to illness, medical appointments and recovery from operations. Maintaining a flexible and understanding approach helped participants remain engaged and return when they were able.

I feel so much better for attending the group. When I had to take a break, I really missed it. The group not only helps physically, but it is also good for my mental health.

Marina - 64, Todmorden resident

Positive Outcomes

The project successfully achieved its aims by sustaining the existing Keep Fit & Active class and establishing a new Gentle Stretch and Relaxation class in Cornholme.

Between November 2025 and July 2026, all planned sessions were delivered. The Vale Baptist Church class maintained an average attendance of seven participants, with two new members joining during the project.

Meanwhile, the new Gentle Stretch and Relaxation class grew from having no existing provision to an average attendance of six participants, increasing to around eight in more recent months and reaching a maximum of ten attendees.

The project successfully engaged its target audience, with most participants aged between 65 and 74. Both classes developed a strong core of regular attendees, with some participants choosing to attend both sessions.

Since taking part in the sessions, I’ve become more confident and will now get up and dance when I’m on holiday. My balance and flexibility have improved greatly.

Carol - Cornholme

The benefits extended well beyond increased physical activity. Participants reported improvements in physical health, confidence and independence, while regular social interaction provided opportunities to connect, build friendships and feel part of the community.

I’ve realised I needed this gentle way of exercise as I found muscles that I didn’t know were there. It’s motivated me, and I hope the classes keep going. We have a brew and a chat after class, which is lovely. Getting to know our fellow classmates.

Linda - 67, Todmorden resident

The impact has also spread beyond the classes themselves. Rebecca regularly shares local community projects, initiatives and “what’s on” guides. Several participants have gone on to engage with other local opportunities, including a new community lunch club in Cornholme and volunteering at The Great Get Together community event. Many regularly stay after sessions to chat, relax and socialise, demonstrating the value of the connections created through the project.

This has given me the confidence to join new classes, and I would definitely recommend this class to family and friends.

Miranda - 69, Todmorden resident

I now feel more confident about trying new things and can see some small improvements in my mobility. The exercises can be done at home, and I try and build them into my daily routine.

Bridget - 60, Cornholme resident

Looking Ahead

External funding has now been secured to enable these activities to continue. High demand, positive feedback and increasing participation demonstrate the value of these community-based activities, while work continues to secure their long-term sustainability.

By creating accessible opportunities for people to move more, connect with others and build confidence, the project has helped foster a healthier, more connected community in Cornholme.

I’m really pleased with what this project has achieved. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see people grow in confidence, both in themselves and in what they feel able to do.

We’ve created a supportive environment where people feel welcomed, included and motivated to take part, but that feeling is coming from the participants just as much as from us.

Seeing people become genuinely invested, encourage each other and help shape what comes next is what makes this project so meaningful.

Rebecca, Director of IMT and Class Facilitator