“Winners of the Challenge”: Eastern Cape Seniors Doing the Magumba Dance Challenge Melts Hearts

• A group of 12 seniors from the Eastern Cape came together to take on the viral Magumba dance challenge
• The mixed-race group of men and women moved in perfect sync to the music, with some showing more energy than others
• The heartwarming video went viral with over 2,500 reactions and 190 comments as South Africans celebrated the seniors' willingness to join the dance trend
• Briefly News spoke to medical expert Jayshri Rangasamy regarding the physical and mental health benefits of seniors staying active

A group of senior citizens from the Eastern Cape has stolen the hearts of South Africans after participating in the popular Magumba dance challenge.

Facebook page @PEPFeelGoodFM shared the heartwarming video on 1 August 2025. The video shows 12 senior citizens, including both men and women of mixed races, coming together to take on the viral dance challenge. At first, they all stand still, but once the music starts playing, they move together in perfect harmony. What makes the video so special is seeing how each person participates at their own level: some are more energetic than others, but everyone is clearly enjoying themselves and having a great time.

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The seniors refused to let their age stop them from joining in on the fun, proving that dance challenges aren't just for young people. Their smiles and energy show that having fun and staying active doesn't have an age limit.

Eastern Cape seniors win over Mzansi

The video quickly went viral, getting over 2,500 reactions and 190 comments from people who loved seeing the seniors participate:

@Patty Mpheroane noticed:

"I like how the second last gentleman in row one is such a willing participant 😂😂😂"

@Buyiswa Mgcina related:

"The second guy in the front row with the shirt is me 😂😂😂"

@Thokozile Radebe praised:

"Is the second gentleman with the grey t-shirt for me, he is doing it👏"

@M'sattla M'settla admired:

"Wow, the team spirit 😂"

@Lebohang Gloria Selepe declared:

"Winners of the Challenge 👏🏼❤️🔥🇿🇦"

@Tebello Tlalatje Makola pointed out:

"The first two gentlemen from the right😭😭🤣"

@Anele Kamabeka Madlolo celebrated:

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"You've got to love South Africa."

Why staying active matters at any age

According to the National Institute of Ageing, looking after your body means staying active and making healthy choices as you get older. Exercise is one of the best ways to age well. People who keep moving often live longer and enjoy more pain-free years. Being active also helps older adults keep their muscles strong, and even moderate exercise can make a big difference.

But it’s not just about the body. Staying active with hobbies, social events, or fun activities can boost mental health, too. Joining community groups can lower feelings of loneliness, while things like dancing or other creative activities can improve memory, confidence, and mood, all while reducing stress.

Speaking to Briefly News writer, Nerissa Naidoo, medical expert Jayshri Rangasamy discussed the physical and mental health benefits of seniors staying active. She stated:

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"Staying active offers seniors a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. Physically, it helps maintain heart health, manage weight, strengthen bones and muscles, improve balance, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases and falls."

"Mentally, regular activity boosts mood, reduces anxiety and depression, enhances cognitive function, and promotes better sleep. It also supports independence and longevity, while fostering social connections that are vital for emotional well-being. Overall, staying active is key to ageing healthily and maintaining a high quality of life."

View the Facebook reel here.

3 other stories about seniors staying active

• Briefly News recently reported on a Soweto gogo who became a viral sensation dancing to an R. Kelly song, but the reason behind her incredible energy and youthful moves had everyone calling her something special.
• A group of men took on the Magumba challenge during a garage pit stop, but the location where they decided to dance and what happened next had Mzansi in complete stitches.
• South African women turned heads in Thailand with their fearless dance moves at a restaurant, but the reaction they got from fellow diners and the confidence they displayed had social media users saying one thing.

Source: Briefly News