National Fitness Day 2026: Inspiring people in the Parkinson’s community

Can you tell us a little about your role and how you support the Parkinson’s community?

I co-founded and co-run Padel4Parkinson's. It's an initiative that, with the backing of Parkinson's UK, can offer weekly coached, subsidised Padel sessions for people with Parkinson's and their partners/carers. Each session is specifically designed to offer four elements: a warm-up designed by our coach in collaboration with our local NHS PD Physios, developing better movement, balance and coordination with a range of physical and cognitive routines; then coaching on elements of the game of Padel to develop play and maximise enjoyment, followed by match play at a level to suit each participant. Finally, what most say is the best bit: a cuppa, cake and a chat with other Parkies and their partners/carers.

What inspired you to get involved and give your time or skills to this work?

It's often the case that with the progression of Parkinson's comes a decline in the ability to play sports as you once did. Ironically, exercise, particularly high-intensity exercise, has been proven to slow the progression of Parkinson's symptoms, so I felt it important to find a sport that allowed me, and more importantly, other people with Parkinson's, to keep active. So, after 'finding' Padel, I realised how it can help with a number of our symptoms, including movement, balance, coordination, neuroplasticity and general well-being. So started Padel 4 Parkinson's.

What does the National Fitness Day theme “Powered by You” mean to you personally?

I feel that it is a 'call to arms' for us Parkies to get up and get exercising, regardless of age or physical ability. I have learnt from many specialist PD Physios that there is always a level at which you can join in. Start small and keep within your abilities so that you’re always safe, then stick with it and do it regularly, gradually increasing activity as you are ready. Exercise does not need to be done in one go; take "exercise snacks" and do a little each time throughout the day.

How have you seen playing padel benefit people living with Parkinson's, either physically, emotionally or socially? 

In the relatively short time that P4P has been going, we have seen great progress from many of the players. Many with PD become socially reserved, and it is fair to say a few were not too engaging and smiley at the start. Now they beam the minute they get on court and are much more chatty. And everyone has improved their movement on court, and it's actually getting quite competitive some afternoons. Confidence is growing, balance improving, smiles radiating, and life feels just a little better for a while. I also think that it is important that partners are getting involved and are supportive, and that they themselves are supported. Partners suffer the effects of Parkinson's too! Our sessions provide a 'safe space' to chat and ask about something PD-related or, more importantly, to be able to ask others in their position how they might cope themselves in dealing with symptoms or their own feelings. It is vital that they too continue to be socially active and feel that they have a place to just chat.

Can you share a memorable story about someone whose confidence or wellbeing has grown through taking part?

One guy told us last week that he hadn’t played any sport since he was at junior school (he's in his 50s now) and was very 'body conscious'. His Dad, who joined us too, said that it's the first time he has seen his son be enthusiastic about exercise for decades and loves seeing him getting involved. Another lady, in her 80s, had to stop playing tennis after 40 years as it was too much, and she got depressed missing the social engagement and competition. Padel has got her back on court, smiling and getting competitive again.

She even said that after a few weeks of play, she noticed she could turn over in bed much more easily – no one expected that as a benefit of Padel. She added, "Since playing, I fall over less, my grip is stronger, and my legs, feet and balance have all improved".

Interested in padel? Join Padel4Parkinson’s.

Can you tell us a little about your role and how you support the Parkinson's community?

My role is to lead Bromley FC Community Trust's Parkinson's Walking Football sessions and create a welcoming environment where people can stay active, build confidence and enjoy being part of a team. We adapt activities to suit different abilities and stages of Parkinson's, helping participants enjoy football in a safe and supportive setting.

Just as importantly, the sessions provide an opportunity for people to connect with others who understand the challenges of living with Parkinson's. The sessions we run at Bromley are part of a wider national partnership, drawing on the expertise and infrastructure of EFL in the Community and 14 Football Club charities (including us at Bromley), as well as Parkinson’s UK and the Football Association (FA). Overall, the programme was attended by 238 people living with Parkinson’s.

What inspired you to get involved and give your time or skills to this work?

I was inspired by the opportunity to learn a new way of coaching and to use football as a tool to make a genuine difference in people's lives. Working with people living with Parkinson's has taught me the importance of being patient, understanding and adaptable.

Seeing participants grow in confidence, develop friendships and achieve things they didn't think were possible is incredibly rewarding.

What does the National Fitness Day theme "Powered by You" mean to you personally?

To me, "Powered by You" is about listening to our participants and putting their needs, interests and goals at the heart of everything we do. The sessions are shaped by what they enjoy and what helps them feel active, confident and included.

Their determination, positivity and support for one another are what truly drive the programme forward.

Is there a participant or moment that really captures the impact these sessions have had?

One participant regularly comes along simply to support the group, even when they're not able to take part in the football itself. That really captures what these sessions mean to people.

The friendships and sense of community that develop are just as important as the physical activity, and it's inspiring to see participants looking out for and encouraging one another every week.

What makes walking football a great option for people who may not have played football for years, or ever?

Walking football removes many of the barriers people may feel about returning to sport. It's accessible, inclusive and allows participants to enjoy being active at a pace that suits them, regardless of their previous football experience. Whether someone is rediscovering a lifelong love of football or trying it for the first time, it offers a fun way to improve fitness, build confidence and connect with others in a supportive environment. The network of Football Club charities is particularly well positioned to deliver these programmes, with 68% of the population of England and Wales living within 10 miles of a Club. EFL Clubs’ communities are diverse, but many share challenges resulting from deprivation and other inequalities linked to income, health and education.

Interested in walking football? 

If you’re in England, join the EFL Walking Football community. If you’re in Wales, join the Football Association of Wales. If you’re in Scotland, join Walking Football Scotland. If you’re in Northern Ireland, join the Irish Football Association.