British Cycling partnership to get more people moving with Parkinson's

We've agreed a new partnership with British Cycling to help more people with Parkinson's to try cycling as part of an innovative new pilot project.

We'll become the British Cycling Foundation’s first funding partner, helping to provide training to coaches and volunteers, improving understanding of how cycling can benefit people with Parkinson’s and raise awareness of the condition to thousands.

Being active on a regular basis is proven to be one of the best ways to live well with Parkinson's. It offers benefits to a person's mobility, balance and strength, while also supporting mental wellbeing and confidence.

The partnership will allow British Cycling to create training modules shaped by lived experience, giving coaches and volunteers the knowledge and confidence to deliver inclusive cycling sessions tailored for people with Parkinson’s.

The new pilot project will launch in 4 locations across the UK to help test and refine British Cycling's approach to cycling sessions for people living with Parkinson's.

The new partnership will also build on the success of British Cycling’s Limitless programme, the governing body's flagship disability and para-cycling project which launched in 2022. It has already supported people living with Parkinson’s to either discover, or rediscover, the joy of cycling.

Anna Castiaux, Physical Activity Programme Lead at Parkinson’s UK, said:

"Being active can be one of the best ways to live well with Parkinson’s and I’m delighted to have agreed this new partnership with British Cycling.

"The partnership will give more cycling instructors, coaches and volunteers a better understanding of Parkinson’s as a condition and help them to tailor their sessions more effectively.

"Whether you’re a keen cyclist or you’re just getting started, my hope is that this new offer will also allow more people with Parkinson’s to enjoy the physical, social and wellbeing benefits of cycling."

Tracy Power, Managing Director of the British Cycling Foundation, said:

"We’re thrilled to be working with Parkinson’s UK, as we look to bring the joy of cycling to those who need it most. This partnership gives us the opportunity to create more spaces where cycling is accessible, enjoyable and supportive for all."

"The impact of this work could be genuinely life-changing for people who may not have seen cycling as an option to support their health and wellbeing. Fighting inequalities is at the heart of what we do, and it’s vital that communities’ needs are understood and met. Working with experts such as Parkinson’s UK helps us to better understand the people we’re supporting and how best to meet their needs."