Swansea ranks among UK’s strongest cities in new fitness survey

A new UK-wide fitness survey has revealed Swansea as one of the nation’s strongest cities, placing eighth overall in a ranking based on average gym lifts.

The study, conducted by home-gym supplier Mirafit, surveyed 2,000 adults who regularly lift weights. Participants were asked to report their average performance across four key strength exercises: deadlift, bench press, military press and squat. Swansea recorded a combined average of 192.1kg, placing it just behind Coventry and ahead of Edinburgh and Birmingham.

UK’s Top 10 Strongest Cities (by average lift)

1. Gloucester
Total average: 232.2kg

2. Plymouth
Total average: 214.4kg

3. Belfast
Total average: 212.3kg

4. Leicester
Total average: 202.5kg

5. York
Total average: 202.0kg

6. Brighton & Hove
Total average: 201.7kg

7. Coventry
Total average: 193.5kg

8. Swansea
Total average: 192.1kg

9. Edinburgh
Total average: 191.7kg

10. Birmingham
Total average: 190.8kg

Swansea’s bench press performance ranks second nationally

Swansea’s strongest showing came in the bench press, where the city ranked second in the UK with an average lift of 67.04kg — narrowly behind Gloucester, which topped the chart with 69.5kg. Swansea also posted competitive averages in squats (64.29kg) and deadlifts (66.17kg), contributing to its overall eighth-place finish.

Mark Harris, fitness expert at Mirafit, said: “Gloucester proved impressive, recording substantial averages in all four routines and positioning themselves as the strongest city in the UK. But it’s great to see cities like Swansea performing strongly too — especially in the bench press, where they’re right near the top.”

The survey highlights regional differences in strength training culture and gym habits. Gloucester led the pack with a total average of 232.2kg, followed by Plymouth (214.4kg) and Belfast (212.3kg).

Methodology and insights

Mirafit’s Strongest Cities survey asked respondents to report their heaviest lifts in four exercises: deadlift, squat, bench press and military press. The data was then averaged by city to produce a national ranking. The survey also explored gym frequency and recovery habits, with cities like Coventry scoring high for wellness infrastructure such as spas and saunas.

The full Strongest Cities report, including rankings and methodology, is available via Mirafit’s website.

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British Art Show to visit Swansea for the first time in 2027

Swansea Council has announced that the city will be one of just a handful of UK locations to host British Art Show 10, the country’s leading touring exhibition of contemporary art.

The exhibition, developed by Hayward Gallery Touring — part of the Southbank Centre — will arrive in Swansea in early 2027 following its launch in Coventry in September 2026. It will be staged at Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, Elysium Gallery, GS Artists, Mission Gallery and Volcano Theatre.

Elliott King, Cabinet Member for Culture, Human Rights and Equalities, Swansea Council, said: “The tour is coming to Swansea in February 2027 and wherever you are in the city centre, you won’t be far from it because it’s going to be at the Elysium Gallery, GS Artists, Mission Gallery and Volcano Theatre as well as the Glynn Viv. Swansea will be its only visit to Wales, an accolade that demonstrates our venues’ growing reputation as places that not only showcase the vibrancy of our local creative art scene but also exhibit art from across the UK and beyond to enthusiastic audiences.”

The British Art Show has previously featured iconic artists including David Hockney, Tracey Emin, Grayson Perry, and Lucian Freud, and is widely regarded as the UK’s most significant recurring exhibition of contemporary art.

Karen MacKinnon, Curator at Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, said: “It’s brilliant that the British Art Show is coming to Swansea, we are all so excited about this opportunity to work together on a multi venue national project across Swansea. We are sure that curator and writer Ekow Eshun will select an incredible list of artists from across the UK which will not only be enjoyed by our audiences and communities but create new opportunities for local artists and a creative legacy for the city.”

The exhibition is supported by Swansea Council and Arts Council of Wales, with Glynn Vivian Art Gallery acting as the local lead partner.

Dafydd Rhys, Chief Executive of Arts Council of Wales, said: “We are delighted that the British Art Show will be hosted across Swansea in 2027, and to offer support funding through the local lead partner, Glynn Vivian Art Gallery. The British Art Show, delivered across fantastic Welsh arts venues including Elysium Gallery, GS Artists, Mission Gallery, Volcano Theatre and the Glynn Vivian, provides an excellent opportunity to showcase what Swansea has to offer in terms of its vibrant art scene, raises awareness and increases opportunities for the artistic community, and best of all, will bring people into the city to enjoy an exciting cultural offer.”

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£1.5m redevelopment aims to enhance facilities and expand cultural programming.

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Swansea Trading Standards lead £3m counterfeit toy raid in London

Swansea Council’s Trading Standards team has carried out a second high-profile raid in the UK capital, confiscating an estimated 25 tonnes of counterfeit toys worth around £3 million from multiple distribution outlets on the outskirts of London.

The operation, part of the ongoing multi-agency crackdown known as Operation Grinch, follows months of investigations into fake toys being sold in Swansea — particularly in pop-up shops during the Christmas period.

Toxic toys and a widening supply chain

The haul includes thousands of counterfeit Labubu dolls, a viral collectible toy linked to celebrity endorsements and TikTok trends, as well as fake merchandise branded as Pokemon, Disney, Marvel and other household names. Officers also seized thousands of illegal vapes, many of which were destined for shops across the UK.

According to BBC reports, some of the seized toys were found to contain phthalates — banned chemicals linked to hormone disruption and certain types of cancer. These substances are prohibited in children’s toys under UK safety regulations.

Rhys Harries, Trading Standards Lead Officer at Swansea Council, said:

“The latest seizure is the result of detailed investigations around the sources of counterfeit toys that we discovered being sold in Swansea. Recently, we seized a significant number of Labubu toys from shops in Swansea. This seems to be one of the most popular toys at present, so it’s no surprise that during the most recent operation in London, we found many more waiting to be distributed to shops around the UK.”

He added that the toys were not only fake but poorly manufactured, posing serious choking hazards to young children.

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Officials urge vigilance as fake Labubu dolls pose chemical and choking hazards, lacking proper safety certification.

Blind box craze fuels demand — and deception

Labubu toys are typically sold in ‘blind boxes’, meaning consumers don’t know which character they’ll get until they open the box. This element of surprise — combined with limited runs and collectible appeal — has sent demand soaring, with some dolls resold for up to three times their retail price.

The frenzy has created fertile ground for counterfeiters. In Swansea alone, over 1,500 fake Labubu plushies and keyrings were seized, with some local retailers admitting they were unaware they had purchased counterfeit stock. This gap in retailer knowledge underscores the importance of supplier verification and consumer awareness.

Cllr David Hopkins, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Performance, said:

“Our own Trading Standards did not stop at simply dealing with counterfeit goods being sold on the street in Swansea — they showed a lot of professionalism and determination to tackle the wider distribution into other towns and cities.”

Celebrity influence behind the craze

Dua Lipa, Rihanna and TikTok
Celebrities including Dua Lipa and Rihanna have posted with authentic Labubu dolls on social media, helping fuel their popularity across younger audiences.

Viral collectibles
Labubu’s rise has been turbocharged by TikTok blind-box videos and fan communities, making them one of the UK’s most hyped toy trends of the year.

A national crackdown in motion

The London raid was supported by Metropolitan Police, the Anti-Counterfeiting Group, and Trading Standards teams from Newport, Kent and Sussex, highlighting the scale and reach of the operation.

Trading Standards teams in Caerphilly, Northumberland, and Powys have also taken action, with unsafe Labubu toys pulled from sale at events like the Royal Welsh Show.

The dolls, originally made by Chinese toy giant Pop Mart, are now a target for rogue manufacturers — often producing lookalikes with detachable parts, poor stitching, and missing CE/UKCA marks.

How to spot a fake Labubu

Poor stitching and loose parts
Genuine Labubu dolls are robustly made. Counterfeits may have uneven seams or detachable pieces that pose choking risks.

Missing safety logos
Look for CE or UKCA markings. Their absence is a major red flag — particularly on packaging.

Price that’s too good to be true
Authentic dolls typically cost £15–£30. Suspiciously cheap deals often signal counterfeits.

Check the blind box seal
Counterfeit packaging often lacks the signature branding hologram or comes unsealed.

What’s next?

Swansea Council says it will continue to pursue the supply chain behind counterfeit goods and work with national partners to protect consumers. Operation Grinch remains active, with further investigations expected in the coming months.

If you suspect counterfeit toys are being sold locally, report it to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

Fire crews tackle Port Tennant house blaze sparked by candle

Firefighters were called to a serious blaze in Port Tennant on Sunday night after a candle sparked a fire inside a domestic property.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) responded at 10.33pm on 3 August, with crews from Swansea Central, Swansea West and Port Talbot attending a two-storey semi-detached house.

The fire, which broke out in a first-floor bedroom, was described by crews as “well developed” on arrival. Bystanders outside the property feared someone may still be inside, prompting firefighters wearing breathing apparatus to enter and carry out a full search.

Crews used six breathing apparatus sets, two hose reel jets, thermal imaging cameras and an extension ladder to bring the fire under control. Fortunately, no casualties were found inside the property.

A joint response was led by MAWWFRS and South Wales Police, who helped manage the scene and secure the area.

Following the extinguishment of the blaze, fire investigators confirmed the cause was accidental — the result of an unattended candle left burning inside the property.

MAWWFRS said they strongly discourage the use of candles and urged residents to follow basic safety precautions if they choose to use them.

“Candles are an open flame and can cause devastation if left unattended or placed near flammable materials,” the service said.

Advice includes never leaving lit candles unattended, keeping flames away from children and pets, placing them on stable, heat-resistant surfaces and fully extinguishing before leaving a room.

Stay safe with candles at home

Always place candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces — never on plastic or near soft furnishings.

Keep flames away from curtains, furniture, children and pets. Use proper holders and avoid draughts.

Never leave candles unattended. Extinguish fully before leaving a room or going to sleep.

Use a snuffer or spoon to put out candles — blowing them out can spread sparks and hot wax.

Leave space between candles. At least 10cm apart to prevent flaring or overheating.

Install and test smoke alarms regularly. Practise your escape route with everyone in your home.

More safety tips available via MAWWFRS Candle Safety Guide.

Planning Approved for Ospreys’ Redevelopment of St Helen’s

Ospreys Rugby has secured planning approval for its proposed redevelopment of St Helen’s Sports Ground, confirming that construction work is expected to begin in September following the conclusion of Swansea Cricket Club’s season.

The decision represents a key moment in the club’s long-term ambitions to create a permanent home in Swansea and re-establish its regional identity. The approved scheme will transform the Victorian-era venue into a state-of-the-art hub for elite and community rugby, with upgraded spectator and player facilities designed to support year-round use.

Lance Bradley, CEO of Ospreys Rugby, said:

“This is an incredibly exciting moment and a vital step in building the future of the Ospreys and rugby across our region. I’m immensely proud of the work that’s brought us here and grateful to our partners for their dedication and commitment to this project. We’re also very appreciative of the ongoing support from Swansea Council for the redevelopment of this iconic ground.”

Plans for the ground include a full-size World Rugby compliant 4G pitch, three new stands and a covered terrace, alongside matchday fan zones and a purpose-built training complex to be completed in a second phase. The redevelopment is designed to honour the site’s rich sporting legacy while modernising infrastructure to meet current professional standards.

The club is expected to relocate permanently to St Helen’s in December 2025, following the 2024–25 season at the Swansea.com Stadium.

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Broadacre ground to host early matches during redevelopment works at St Helen’s.

Impact on other sporting tenants

The approved plans will also see Swansea RFC temporarily relocate to Dunvant RFC’s Broadacre ground for the start of the 2025–26 Super Rygbi Cymru season. The club is expected to return to St Helen’s in time for its traditional derby fixture against Aberavon in late December.

Meanwhile, Swansea Cricket Club, a fixture at the ground since 1875, will vacate the site after the 2025 season. The club is currently working with local stakeholders to identify a suitable new location.

The redevelopment aligns with Swansea Council’s broader ambition to establish a sports science park, with links to Swansea University’s research expertise and a growing regional focus on health and performance innovation.

“We’re Playing for Our Health”: Swansea Rugby Club Helps Local Men Tackle Weight Loss, Friendship and Mental Wellbeing

Every Monday night on Llangyfelach Road, the sound of trainers on turf and bursts of laughter echo across Pure Swansea’s playing fields. But this isn’t just any rugby match—it’s a game changer in more ways than one.

The newly launched MAN v FAT Rugby club in Swansea, the first of its kind in Wales, has quietly sparked a health revolution. In just three months, 30 men have shed an astonishing 26 stone between them. But behind those numbers are stories of motivation, camaraderie and a fresh start.

More Than a Game

“This isn’t about elite rugby,” says coach Lisa Di’Iulio. “It’s about showing up—for yourself and for your mates.”

Every week, players weigh in, track their progress, and then take part in small-sided touch rugby matches. Points scored on the pitch blend with individual weight loss to form league standings, creating a team-based incentive rooted in mutual support.

For Lisa, the transformation goes far deeper than shrinking waistlines. “Confidence levels have soared. Players who barely spoke during week one are now supporting each other vocally, offering tactical advice, celebrating wins, and—most importantly—talking honestly about their health.”

Mental Health Meets Muscle Memory

The club is part of a nationwide movement, building on the decade-long success of MAN v FAT Football. But for many Swansea players, rugby carries added meaning.

“We’re giving men a safe space to play again,” says Karl White, Lead at MAN v FAT Rugby. “Some haven’t touched a rugby ball in years. We strip away the barriers—fitness worries, facilities bookings, social nerves—and invite them back into the game.”

And what they discover is more than fitness. “The sessions become highlights in our players’ weeks,” Karl continues. “They’re not just losing weight—they’re gaining friendships, building mental resilience and rediscovering joy.”

A Team with Heart

Trophies and medals get handed out at the end of each season, but it’s the infectious energy—and genuine connection—that make Swansea’s club special.

“We’ve built something rare here,” says Lisa. “The vibe each week is electric. Everyone’s cheering each other on. Whether someone’s lost 5% of their body weight or just turned up for the first time, they’re celebrated.”

And the results speak for themselves: some players have smashed their personal goals, losing 10% of their starting weight, while others credit the club with helping them manage anxiety and depression.

Looking Ahead

The Swansea club is growing fast—and the team behind it is dreaming bigger. “We want to fill every space,” Lisa says. “To welcome more men who want change, who want to feel part of something bigger, who want to invest in their health.”

For newcomers, there’s no need for top-tier fitness or flashy gear. Just a willingness to show up. “If you’ve got an old pair of trainers and the curiosity to give it a try,” Karl adds, “you’re already on the team.”

Whether it’s the camaraderie or the competition, Swansea’s MAN v FAT Rugby is proving one thing above all: when men play together, they grow together.

More info and sign-up details: manvfatrugby.com/club/swansea

Langland Bay tennis court site may be redeveloped to include new leisure facilities

A stretch of land overlooking Langland Bay, including three under-used tennis courts and a vacant building, may soon be redeveloped to offer new public facilities in one of Swansea’s most popular coastal areas.

The site — located on Alma Road and bordering the Gower National Landscape — sits adjacent to refurbished courts leased to Mumbles Community Council, which are not part of the proposal. Public toilets and shower facilities on the site would need to be retained or replaced as part of any future scheme.

Several years ago, Swansea Council conducted a public consultation on the site’s potential, with responses pointing to demand for restaurants, tourist accommodation, and improved facilities. While no formal plans have been submitted, land and property consultants Savills are now marketing the land on behalf of the council.

The council has said it would ring-fence proceeds from any long lease arrangement for future reinvestment, and that any proposal would be subject to full planning approval and public input.

Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council cabinet member for investment, regeneration, events and tourism, said: “We want something in keeping with the local environment — so no high-rise developments. The public continually tell us there should be more facilities for them along the seafront.”

A changing coastline with deep community roots

Langland Bay has long played a central role in Swansea’s leisure economy. In the early 20th century, the former Langland Bay Hotel operated eight grass courts and hosted tournaments that attracted competitors from across the UK. The current tennis courts were once home to junior championships featuring athletes like Andy Murray and JPR Williams — part of a local legacy that has seen renewed interest in recent years, including a refurbishment campaign completed in 2020.

The bay recently retained its Blue Flag status for water quality and environmental excellence, and continues to draw visitors for its café, brasserie, golf club and beach huts. The area also ranks high on Swansea’s property market — a recent report revealed that four of the city’s ten most expensive streets are located in Langland.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

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The site is now being marketed through Savills, with further details available via: https://www.bit.ly/LBaug25

Out With Diesel: Swansea to Lead Wales on Hydrogen Bus Upgrade and Fleet Renewal

Buses powered by hydrogen fuel cells could be serving routes across Swansea Bay by 2027, under proposals being explored by Transport for Wales and Swansea Council as part of a sweeping revamp of the Welsh bus network.

The new low-emission vehicles are expected to be trialled within the city, alongside a planned hydrogen refuelling hub near Fabian Way — one of several infrastructure priorities outlined in the new South West Wales Regional Transport Plan, covering Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.

Speaking at a recent climate change and nature scrutiny meeting, Swansea Council’s Head of Highways and Transportation, Stuart Davies, said the city’s ageing fleet could be replaced with a mix of hydrogen and electric buses, coinciding with proposed bus franchising reforms set to roll out regionally in 2027.

“We don’t see shiny vehicles,” Mr Davies told councillors, describing the current fleet as “hand-me-downs of hand-me-downs.”

Hydrogen buses use fuel cells to convert hydrogen into electricity, producing lower emissions and enabling faster refuelling compared to battery-electric models. The technology is already in limited use across the UK, but Swansea could be among the first Welsh cities to embrace it at scale.

Meanwhile, battery-electric buses have already been introduced on Carmarthen to Aberystwyth services operated by Transport for Wales, hinting at a multi-fuel future for Wales’ bus network.

Regional Transport Plan Sets Ambitious Goals for 2025–2030

The newly submitted transport plan — developed after a public consultation involving over 1,700 residents and organisations — prioritises an integrated system that promotes public transport, cycling and walking.

Key local elements include:

• A hydrogen refuelling hub on Fabian Way
• Replacement of Baldwin’s Bridge, enabling better connectivity to Langdon Road and SA1
• Support for more frequent bus services and safe active travel routes

Welsh Government’s transport strategy aims to reduce car miles per person by 10% by 2030 and boost the proportion of journeys made on foot, bike or public transport from 32% to 45%.

Matt Bowyer, Swansea Council’s Highways Group Leader, acknowledged the challenge ahead:

“Encouraging people to ditch their car is probably the most difficult priority to achieve.”

Welsh Government Backs Fleet Modernisation

In a statement provided to Swansea Bay News, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said:

“As part of plans to improve the bus network in Swansea, including new fleet, we are considering a number of options aimed at reducing emissions and the average age of the fleet.”

This builds on earlier commitments to bus franchising, where decisions on timetables, fares and routes will be made jointly by Welsh Government, Transport for Wales and local councils, with bus companies bidding to deliver services under contract.

Local Control, National Vision

South West Wales will be the first of four regions to adopt the new model in 2027 — potentially transforming how bus services are managed and delivered across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.

For more context on the upcoming reforms, read our previous coverage: Major changes proposed to bus network ahead of 2027 reforms