A FREE men's mental health boxing group is being launched in Rhyl.
The group, named The Corner, was created by Stephen Tomlinson, a personal trainer known in the area for the past seven years.
He previously opened three gyms in Rhyl, but was forced to close his latest gym in early 2025, just months after opening, due to structural damage.
This closure led to significant financial difficulties and marked a challenging period in Mr Tomlinson's life.
Mr Tomlinson said: "The story behind me creating The Corner was turning one of the hardest chapters of my life into something positive for other men.
"A few years ago, I achieved something I'd worked incredibly hard for, opening my own gym and building a community around helping people improve their lives.
"But when the gym was forced to close due to structural damage, I found myself in one of the most difficult periods of my life.
"I didn't just lose a business. I felt like I'd lost my identity.
"For years, I'd been the person helping others build confidence, overcome challenges and improve their mental health.
"Suddenly, I was the person struggling.
"And I think that's something people don't always understand.
"From the outside, people see a business closing. They see someone moving on and starting again.
"But what they don't see is what happens behind closed doors.
"They don't see the sleepless nights, the uncertainty, the feeling of failure or the mental battles somebody faces when everything they've worked towards suddenly disappears.
"I struggled with my mental health during that period, and it taught me something I'll never forget.
"Just because somebody looks okay on the outside doesn't mean they're not fighting a battle on the inside."
After a 12-month break, Mr Tomlinson returned to coaching and decided to use his experiences to help others.
He realised that gym-goers often seek more than just physical fitness; they look for confidence, friendship, purpose, or an escape from personal issues.
This understanding inspired him to create The Corner, a free men's mental health boxing and fitness community in Rhyl.
The group held its first session on Sunday, with 10 men participating.
Mr Tomlinson's goal is to expand The Corner into a larger community where men can find support and companionship.
The Corner sessions take place every Sunday at 5:30pm at The Combat Syndicate, Rhyl.
All abilities are welcome, and no boxing experience is necessary.
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