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10 Years of BollyFit Active: Backed by Research, Delivering Proven Results

Writer's picture: BollyFit TeamBollyFit Team

At BollyFit Active CIC, we’ve spent the last 10 years empowering South Asian women to take control of their health through culturally tailored fitness programmes.


Group of women in colourful attire smiling in a room with international flags. "Bollyfit Active CIC" banners in the background.
10 Years of BollyFit Active: Backed by Research, Delivering Proven Results

Over the years, we’ve witnessed first-hand the incredible impact of our work, and now we’ve come across something remarkable:


A research study published in BMJ Diabetes Research & Care (2015) validates the work we've been doing for the past decade. This study highlights the effectiveness of culturally relevant exercise programmes, like Bollywood dance, in managing and preventing Type 2 diabetes. It confirms what we’ve always believed and proven through our work: culturally tailored fitness is transformative.


BollyFit Active: Delivering What the Research Shows


For the past three years, we’ve delivered a Diabetes/Pre-diabetes programme funded by Manchester Local Care Organisation (MLCO), where GPs refer patients directly to us. This means we’ve not only been advocating for culturally relevant fitness but actively implementing what the research suggests.


Here’s how we align with the research findings:


  • Culturally Relevant Exercise: The study emphasises that cultural relevance enhances participation. Through Bollywood dance, we provide a fun, inclusive, and familiar way for South Asian women to engage in physical activity.


  • Proven Health Outcomes: Like the research, our data shows significant improvements in glycaemic control (lower HbA1c levels) and weight management for participants.


  • Increased Engagement: The research highlights the importance of engagement, and our participants consistently tell us they look forward to our sessions because they’re not just workouts—they’re joyful experiences rooted in culture.


A group of smiling women posing energetically in a gym with colourful artwork and basketball hoops in the background. Casual dress, ready for a fitness session.
Joyful experiences rooted in culture

Our Proven Results Speak Volumes


Here are some highlights from our work:

  • GP Referrals: Hundreds of South Asian women have been referred to our programme by GPs over the last three years.


  • Positive Outcomes: Participants report better blood sugar control, weight loss, and improved mental well-being.


  • High Retention: Our culturally tailored approach has resulted in consistent attendance and high levels of satisfaction.


This is exactly what the research recommends, and we’re proud to be delivering it every day.


What This Means for the Future


  1. As we celebrate our 10th year, the discovery of this research inspires us to aim even higher:

  2. Expand Our Reach: We plan to scale our programme to more communities, ensuring that more women benefit from culturally tailored diabetes management.

  3. Strengthen Our Advocacy: We’ll use our own data alongside this research to show the NHS and other partners why culturally sensitive interventions are vital.

  4. Continue Collecting Evidence: We are committed to collecting even more data to strengthen the evidence base for our work.


A group of 11 women in colourful hijabs and clothing, smiling. A large yellow butterfly decoration in the foreground, a bright mood.
The incredible Bollyfit Active Team

Join Us in Celebrating 10 Years of Impact


BollyFit Active CIC isn’t just a fitness programme—it’s a movement for better health, cultural connection, and community. We’re grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey, from the volunteers who give their time to the GPs who trust us with their patients. Together, we’re creating healthier, happier communities.


Want to be part of this journey?


Looking Ahead: The Next Decade


With 10 years of experience, proven results, and research-backed validation, we’re more inspired than ever to transform lives—one Bollywood step at a time.

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