Free exercise class tailored for people with Parkinson’s

NewsUpdated: 7 January 2025Community and living
A table tennis paddle on top of a ball on top of a table tennis board with a window and red brick wall in the background

A free exercise class designed to help people living with Parkinson’s disease stay active will soon launch thanks to a funding boost.

Three Rivers District Council, in partnership with Bounce Back Exercise – a fitness group tailored for people with long-term health conditions – has set up a class with a mix of specific exercises to address common symptoms and side effects of the neurological disease as well as improve strength and fitness.

The sessions will also include social table tennis, which has been shown to be beneficial in improving hand-eye coordination.

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world and there is currently no cure. It affects around 145,000 people in the UK and there are more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety.

The class will take place at Rickmansworth Tennis Club, Meadow Way, Rickmansworth, WD3 7NG, on Wednesday 22 January 2025 from 11am until noon.

Cllr Chris Lloyd, Lead Member for Leisure, said: “A big thank you to Parkinson’s UK Physical Activity Grants Programme for the £3,000 grant which has made the session possible. Exercise sessions like this are helpful for people living with Parkinson’s. Staying active not only has physical and mental health benefits but it can also create a social network and a sense of independence. I urge anyone with Parkinson’s to consider joining in.

“Our leisure centres across the district are also offering free membership to people living with Parkinson’s disease and their carers, further helping those with this awful disease to stay active. You can find out more by clicking Parkinsons - Everyone Active.”