Join new Parkinson’s exercise classes at the Satellite Centre

AN exercise class for people with Parkinson’s disease is being run at the Satellite Centre in Greenfield.

The sessions will be held at the centre on Wellington Road on alternative Tuesday evenings from May 14 at 6pm-7pm.

Emerging evidence suggests doing 2.5 hours of moderate to vigorous work-outs every week can help slow the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms in the early stages.

As Parkinson’s progresses, exercise is still important to stay active by working on fitness and balance, co-ordination and strength.

Course leader Dr Sarah Prenton, whose mum has Parkinson’s, has more than 20 years’ experience as a specialist in neurological Physiotherapy.

As a senior Physiotherapy lecturer at the University of Huddersfield, Sarah is passionate about increasing activity for all neurological conditions as part of wider neurological rehabilitation.

“The number of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s in the UK is about 145,000, that’s around 1 adult in every 350,” said Sarah.

Parkinson’s can result in a number of symptoms but commonly people have difficulties with a tremor (shaking), moving (especially quickly), muscle stiffness, posture and balance.

This can also mean people with Parkinson’s lose confidence with activities such as walking and so limit how much activity they do. As a result, people can become increasingly unfit which can further exacerbate symptoms.

“Sessions will focus on strength, co-ordination and movement, entailing circuit-based exercise that is designed to be both physically and mentally vigorous,” explained Sarah.

“For example, the circuit may include boxing, weights, memory and balancing tasks, tailored to each individual.

“It is designed to be different from what is already offered locally as well as providing an opportunity to anyone who might have other commitments during the day, when many other classes run.”

Mike Rooke, the Satellite’s chair of trustees, welcomed the sessions, saying: “This initiative fits our body, mind and well-being programme like a glove.

“Many of us know people who suffer from Parkinson’s. Programme’s like this are the core of our centre’s business, helping to support people’s health and well-being.”

Les Shelmerdine, Chairman of Parkinson’s UK Oldham branch, added: “This new exercise class at the Satelite should prove a great addition to the services available in the Oldham area for anybody suffering from Parkinson’s.

“There are no medications yet which even slow the progress of the condition, never mind stop it.
“However, exercise is believed to slow the progress, so we should encourage all Parkinson’s sufferers to undertake whatever exercise they can.

“On behalf of the Oldham Branch of Parkinson’s UK may I wish Sarah every success with this new venture as it will be a great addition to the classes we offer on the first and third Wednesday of each month from 2.30pm at the Primrose Centre Magnolia Gardens Oldham OL8 1HX.”

Each class with Sarah at the Satellite will cost £5. If you’re interested in attending or have any questions call Sarah on 07516 622698 or email crocdunbar@hotmail.com

You can also find her on Facebook @ActiveNeuroPhysio.

• For all other Satellite booking enquiries, private parties or meetings, activities or events call Jane Pickering on 07895 446619.

One Reply to “Join new Parkinson’s exercise classes at the Satellite Centre”

  1. I am 65 years old, I was diagnosed of Parkinson’s disease at the age of 59. I had severe calf pain, muscle pain, slurred speech, frequent falls, loss of balance, difficulty getting up from sitting position. i was on Carbidopa and Pramipexole for two years, as the disease progressed my symptoms worsened, with my neurologist guidance i started on natural PARKINSON’S DISEASE TREATMENT from Rich Herbal garden (ww w. richherbalgardens. c o m). The treatment worked very effectively for my Parkinson’s, most of my severe symptoms simply vanished within the first 3 months on the treatment, i feel better now than I have felt in years and i can feel my strength again. My neurologist was very open when looking at alternative medicines and procedures, this alternative Parkinson’s disease treatment is indeed a breakthrough.

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