A walking football group is helping people with Parkinson’s stay active in Bolton.
Eleven regulars are currently attending the free, weekly 60-minute session funded by Parkinson’s UK, organised in conjunction with Bolton NHS, at Bolton Arena.
Gerry Barker, a 78-year-old participant from Sharples, said: “Every session gives me something to look forward to.
“The movement helps me stay flexible and balanced.
“The camaraderie lifts my spirits more than I can say.
“There’s a real sense of belonging on the pitch, no judgement, just encouragement and shared joy. Walking football is brilliant.
“I leave each session feeling grateful for the friends and fitness it has brought me.”
His wife Julie said: “Walking football has been an absolute game-changer for my husband.
“Living with Parkinson’s, and any other neurological problems, can make it hard to stay active and social, but this sport has given him both back in a way I never expected.
“It’s designed perfectly for people like Gerry, slower paced, safe and inclusive, yet still full of fun, laughter and teamwork.”
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that causes brain damage over time.
Symptoms include tremors, slow movement and muscle stiffness.
Others can include depression, anxiety and an increased risk of falls.
The sessions, organised by Bolton Arena’s football manager Marcus Brown, include a meet and greet, a warm-up, shooting and passing drills, and a small-sided game.
Mr Brown said: “It’s just like any other walking football session we hold, but it’s amazing to see the difference between the players before and during the session.
“When you see the footballers walking from the reception area to the outdoor pitches, they kind of shuffle along.
“It takes quite a long time, but when they’re actually playing on the pitch it’s like they’re a different person.
“The exercise supresses the Parkinson’s, which is so great to see.”
He was inspired to start the session after speaking to his former boss and mentor at the old Burnden Park Leisure Centre, a former army PT instructor, who was diagnosed with the disease in his late 60s…
READ MORE at source:https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/25638399.bolton-arena-hosts-football-game-men-parkinsons/
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Author: The Walking Football
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