The ‘non-contact’ boxing is one of many activities at two new sessions by occupational therapists and sports coaches.
Sessions are every Monday from 3pm to 3.50pm at Moberly Sports Centre in Chamberlayne Road, Kensal Green, and at Paddington’s Little Venice Sports Centre in Crompton Street on Thursdays, 2-2.45pm.
“We want to help more people manage their symptoms,” occupational therapist Ava Thomas said. “The sessions help people with Parkinson’s stay active and socialise in a supportive environment.”
Classes run by the Sport for Confidence organisation also include chair-based yoga, weights, mobility practice and resistance bands for strengthening muscles.
The Little Venice sessions, which include boxing, are open to anyone in the early-to-mid stages of Parkinson’s. Classes are adapted for individual needs.
Physical activity helps reduce stiffness, improves mobility and bone health and gives better balance and coordination, therapists point out.
Sessions are for all ages and abilities of mobility or experience. But spaces are limited. Anyone interested can contact Ava Thomas at the Moberly centre on 07706-364225 or Jennifer Brookland at Little Venice on 07355 093142, or go on the ‘sportforconfidence.com’ referral website.
