Council launches Parkinson's exercise programme

The programme will take place at Newcastle-under-Lyme's Jubilee2 leisure centre

A specialist exercise programme for people with Parkinson's disease is being set up in a Staffordshire town.

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is launching the scheme at its Jubilee2 leisure centre on 7 April with funding from charity Parkinson's UK.

It will include group classes and individual gym sessions designed to ease the symptoms of the condition.

People with Parkinson's often experience shaking and stiffness as well as slow movements.

Lucy Taylor, sports and events manager at the local authority, said the programme would feature circuits and spinning classes, plus sessions to improve posture, balance and flexibility.

It also includes access to the leisure centre's gym and swimming pool.

"Being active for 2.5 hours a week is shown to help manage Parkinson's symptoms while having a positive impact on overall health and mood," she said.

She added the exercises focused on core stability, balance, mobility, co-ordination and flexibility - things that can be affected by the condition.

Roma Hashim, physical activity grants manager at Parkinson's UK, said the group activities would also offer great social opportunities.

"Being active is one of the best ways to manage Parkinson's symptoms, as regular physical activity can improve both long-term physical and mental wellbeing," he said.