Dunstable communities are encouraged to try new walking football offer for autumn

People living with Parkinson’s in Dunstable and the surrounding areas of Bedfordshire are being encouraged to try a new walking football offer which is aiming to help more local communities live well with the condition.

The sessions start on Thursday, October 1 from 11am to 12pm at Dunstable Leisure Centre, Court Drive, Dunstable, LU5 4JD. The first session is free, and then £4 per person.

Delivered by experienced instructors and coaches from Dunstable Football Club, the new sessions are designed to help more people get active in a fun and social way.

All ages and abilities are welcome to attend and no previous experience of football is required.

Participants are recommended to bring comfortable footwear and clothing for football training, as well as water, snacks and any medication they may need on the day.

Carers and relatives are welcome to join in or watch the sessions, and teas and coffees are also available after the training.

Julie Wilson, Area Development Manager at Parkinson’s UK, said: “I’m delighted to be working with Dunstable Football Club to deliver these new sessions for people living with Parkinson’s in the local area.

“Walking football can have so many benefits for people living with long term health conditions, not just physically, but socially and mentally as well. Being able to build those connections with others can be really powerful and I hope that more people will be able to enjoy the new walking football programme.”

Walking football is shown to have many benefits for people living with Parkinson’s, including:

• Improved balance and coordination
• Better strength, flexibility and mobility
• Improved sense of wellbeing and mindfulness
• Better memory and cognitive skills 
• Greater social interaction

For more information about the new walking football sessions, or to book your place, contact jmwilson@parkinsons.org.uk

Source: https://www.lutontoday.co.uk/your-world/dunstable-communities-are-encouraged-to-try-new-walking-football-offer-for-autumn-8957898

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