Free Membership for People Living with Parkinsons and Carers

We are offering a complimentary membership for people living with Parkinson’s. Free membership will also be given to carers to provide support if needed.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN YOUR MEMBERSHIP?

Access to the gym, swimming pool (where applicable) and group exercise classes

Access to Synergy Dance online classes via a link

We know how important it is to be active, it’s great for your physical and mental wellbeing, and it’s especially important for people with Parkinson’s.

The more physically active people with Parkinson’s are, the easier it is to live well and manage the complexities of the condition.

Being active can be anything that you find enjoyable and gets you up and about, and we are sure that there’ll be something for you to try at one of the over 190 Everyone Active sites nationwide. That might be going for a swim, attending a Parkinson’s specific class, or building up your strength in one of our gyms, all supported by our friendly and trained staff.

If you are taking advantage of our complimentary membership offer, there’s a few things to think about first.

If you are fit and healthy, and your Parkinson’s symptoms are mild you should be able to take part in most of the activities on offer, but maybe start gently before easing into something more vigorous.

If you’ve had Parkinson’s for a long time, or your symptoms are more complex, definitely start slowly and at a comfortable pace.

And if you have any underlying health conditions (such as heart problems, diabetes or breathing issues) you should contact your GP before starting any new activity.

Being more active will help you to live well with Parkinson’s and as well as aiding cardiovascular fitness, balance, strength and coordination, many people say it helps them to sleep better, feel less anxious and to help them keep doing the things that they enjoy.

Whether you are a regular at a leisure centre or a beginner, try and keep in mind these 4 hints:

Some is good, more is better! It’s great to be active, but try and do as much as you can as often as you can – and try and get your intensity levels high

Keep it enjoyable and varied If you enjoy what you do, then you’ll keep doing it! Try and vary how you are active – mix in some classes with some gym work, or a swimming session with your usual yoga or pilates – whatever you enjoy doing

Make it social. Being active with old friends or new, or in a class or group can really increase your enjoyment and motivation, and it’s a good excuse for a chat and some cake afterwards

Challenge your mind. Keeping your brain as well as your body active can be very beneficial for all of us, and it’s especially true for people with Parkinson’s. For example dancing or table tennis are great ways to be mentally and physically active.

MANY THANKS TO DAN82 HUKD FOR THIS