A community project in Swindon known as The Longevity Games is steadily changing how people think about fitness and health.
What started as a small idea has grown into a regular series of local events that bring residents together through achievable challenges and friendly competition.
Founded with a bold ambition to make Swindon the fittest town in Britain, The Longevity Games is proof that local initiatives can create real, lasting change.
Its mission is simple but profound: to help people of all ages take control of their physical and mental health through consistency, camaraderie, and a touch of friendly rivalry.
The results speak for themselves, as shown by stories like that of Cllr Leigh Jackson, whose life has taken a remarkable turn thanks to his involvement in the events.
“In 2021, I was struggling with my mental health, weighed 104.7 kg, and was on four different blood pressure tablets,” Cllr Jackson shared. “Fast forward to this week — I went to the doctor after feeling dizzy at work, and it turns out that my improved fitness meant one of my tablets was slowing my pulse too much. My GP looked at my Garmin data and could see how my resting heart rate had steadily improved. As a result, I’ve now been taken off that tablet.”
Through steady training, encouragement from the Longevity Games team, and renewed motivation to live well, Cllr Jackson has not only shed the weight — now 89.8 kg — but also regained control of his health and mindset. For the first time in years, his doctor has reduced his medication.
“It’s a massive start for me,” he added. “Things like The Longevity Games keep me going and give me something to aim for at each event. Thanks to the team for all the support. It really does work — it just takes time. My goal is to come off all my medication for myself and my family.”
These are the kinds of stories that inspire founder Tim Howe and his team to keep pushing forward. “Stories like this are exactly why we created The Longevity Games,” said Tim.
“It’s not about elite sport — it’s about progress, not perfection. When we see people improving their health, regaining confidence, and in some cases coming off medication, it reminds us that community movement really can change lives.”
Local GP Dr Anna Woodman agrees, highlighting the wider benefits to public health. “Initiatives like The Longevity Games are exactly what we need in primary care,” she said.
“We’re seeing the impact of lifestyle change not just in numbers, but in real people. When patients find something they enjoy and can sustain — like these events — it can reduce blood pressure, improve mental health, and even allow people to come off medication safely. It’s inspiring to see such a positive project in our community.”
With hundreds already taking part, The Longevity Games is growing fast — offering a calendar of events designed for all abilities, from outdoor challenges to gym-based sessions across the year.
To learn more about upcoming events or to join in, visit www.thelongevitygames.co.uk.
