Free gym membership for people with Parkinson’s

Various activities, such exercise classes and swimming, can be beneficial in managing Parkinson's Disease symptoms

People living with Parkinson’s disease are being offered free memberships at two leisure centres.

Hart Leisure Centre and Frogmore Leisure Centre, in Hampshire, run by Everyone Active on behalf of the council, have partnered with Parkinson’s UK to provide access to the gym, swimming and classes.

Parkinson’s affects about 145,000 people in the UK and is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world.

Kevin Wallace, from Everyone Active in Hart, said he “truly believes the membership makes a real difference” for those with the condition.

There is currently no cure for the disease, which has more than 40 symptoms, including tremors, pain and anxiety.

Activities such as swimming, walking and dance can be beneficial in helping to manage the condition.

Karen Cottrell, 50, was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2022 and has been using the membership for over a year.

She said: “Keeping mobile is important when you have Parkinson’s and knowing that I can access leisure facilities for free without worrying about the financial burden is fantastic.

“It really feels like someone is fighting in my corner and giving me the support that I need."

Mr Wallace said: “We want to provide a safe and welcoming environment where the whole Parkinson’s community feel supported as they exercise.”

Corporate partnerships manager at Parkinson’s UK, Tom Ingram, said: “Developing a regular physical activity habit can make a person feel more in control when living with the condition.”