A leisure centre in Wythenshawe offers free memberships to those living with Parkinson’s disease and is urging people to sign up this World Parkinson’s Day (Thursday 11th April 2024).
Forum Leisure – managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Wythenshawe Forum Trust – collaborated with charity Parkinson’s UK in 2022 to create the initiative.
Almost 50 residents have taken up the free memberships so far, but the centre is keen to encourage more people to take advantage of the scheme.
Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world with 153,000 sufferers in the UK alone.
It has more than 40 symptoms ranging from tremor and pain to anxiety, and there is currently no cure.
Being physically active can play an important role in living well with Parkinson’s. People living with the condition find various activities, such as walking or dancing, beneficial in managing their symptoms.
The free membership offers access to gym, swim and group exercise classes. A free carer membership is available, if required.
Phil Bowers, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: “We want to encourage the Parkinson’s community to stay active this World Parkinson’s Day. Exercise is so important for living well with Parkinson’s and can help improve both physical fitness and mental wellbeing.
“Since launching, we’re really proud to see the positive impact our free memberships have had on those who have joined.
“We urge anyone living with Parkinson’s to sign up for the initiative so they can reap the benefits of physical activity in supporting their condition.”
For further information or to join, visit https://www.everyoneactive.com/promotion/parkinsons/.
Those with underlying health conditions such as heart problems, diabetes or breathing issues should contact their GP before starting any new activity.