A NEW walking football project for people living with Parkinson’s and long-term conditions is set to kick off in Redditch.
Neuro Walking Football Worcestershire’s Movers and Shakers group will give people living with Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions from Redditch and the surrounding areas an opportunity to get active in a fun and social way.
The sessions are designed to be inclusive, with all ages and abilities welcome to come along and have a go.
Relatives, carers and friends are invited to attend and cheer loved ones on, and everyone is welcome to stay for a coffee and a chat in the club cafe after the workout.
The hour-long classes will include warm-ups, training drills and friendly matches, overseen by experienced coaches who can target problem areas associated with Parkinson’s such as balance, strength and coordination.
Tim Morton, physical activity programme manager at Parkinson’s UK, said: “Being active is one of the best ways to manage your Parkinson’s symptoms and regular physical activity can help you to live well with the condition.
“Research shows being active can improve both your long-term physical and mental wellbeing when you live with Parkinson’s.
“Walking football is one of the best activities to try when you’re living with a neurological condition and it’s also great for social opportunities, too.
Stuart Langworthy, England manager for over 60s Walking Football at the Walking Football Association (WFA), said: “The WFA is delighted to be supporting more people with Parkinson’s to get active and join their local Walking Football sessions.
“We are working with more local clubs and groups to help people living with neurological conditions and long-term health conditions to get active and live well in a fun and social way.
For more information about the new walking football sessions, email Simon Forrest at [email protected] or call him on 07850 291573.
Sessions will run from 7pm to 8pm every Thursday at The Football Factory, Unit 5, Enfield Industrial Estate, Redditch.
They cost £5 per person but there are free taster sessions available so people can try it out.
