Partnership between everyone active and Parkinson’s UK provides crucial support through free access to leisure facilities

In a significant stride towards supporting individuals with Parkinson’s disease, two leisure centres in Hampshire now offer free gym memberships to help manage symptoms effectively. This initiative, born from a collaboration between Everyone Active and Parkinson’s UK, unlocks free access to various health-promoting activities including gym sessions, swimming, and fitness classes at Hart Leisure Centre and Frogmore Leisure Centre.

Kevin Wallace from Everyone Active highlighted the profound impact this membership has on participants, asserting its real difference in the lives of those battling Parkinson’s. With no existing cure for the neurological condition, which affects approximately 145,000 people in the UK alone, such initiatives are a beacon of hope and support.

Karen Cottrell, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s last year, shares her personal journey with the disease and the membership. For Karen, maintaining mobility is crucial, and the free access to these facilities significantly eases the financial burden, enhancing her quality of life. It represents not just practical aid, but emotional support, giving her the sense of having a robust support system.

The significance of physical activity in managing Parkinson’s cannot be understated. Tom Ingram from Parkinson’s UK emphasizes that regular exercise can empower individuals, providing them with a sense of control over their condition. This initiative not only facilitates physical health but also fosters a community of support, essential for mental and emotional well-being.

Everyone Active’s commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment is evident as they aim to extend this initiative, ensuring that all members of the Parkinson’s community feel welcome and supported in their fitness journeys. As the condition continues to be the fastest-growing neurological disorder globally, such local efforts play a crucial role in mitigating its impacts on individuals and families