A national exercise programme has launched to help more people with Parkinson’s get active, build confidence and make movement part of everyday life.
The Parkinson’s Coach is the work of Katie Thompson, a personal trainer and exercise coach, who was inspired to help others live well with Parkinson’s after her father-in-law was diagnosed with the condition in 2018.
The online programme features a growing library of more than 50 pre-recorded exercise videos designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s.
Sessions focus on aspects of movement commonly affected by the condition, including balance, strength, mobility, coordination and agility, alongside stretching and meditation routines to support flexibility and overall wellbeing.
The programme also includes practical guidance to help people better understand how to exercise effectively with Parkinson’s, build movement into daily life and use exercise to help manage some of the symptoms they may experience.
With different intensity levels and adaptations throughout, the programme supports a wide range of abilities and is suitable for those new to exercise.
Participants can exercise at home, choose a time of day when they feel at their best, repeat sessions as often as they wish and progress at their own pace.
Katie said: “I know that getting started with exercise can feel daunting, particularly if someone is worried about their balance or ability to keep up in a traditional class. I wanted to create something simple and easy to follow that gives people the knowledge, support and flexibility to exercise in a way that works for them, whatever their starting point.
“We know how important regular physical activity is for people with Parkinson’s, so this programme is designed to be a practical tool people can use alongside their medical care and physiotherapy – something that helps them keep moving between appointments, stay motivated and take a more active role in living well with Parkinson’s.
“Most importantly, I want to help people find a way of moving that feels achievable and that they genuinely enjoy – something they look forward to and can make part of everyday life.”
A seven-day free trial is available for new users. Membership provides full access to the workout library, as well as an online community with opportunities to ask questions, take part in challenges and receive training tips from Katie.
For more information about the new Parkinson’s Coach programme, visit https://www.theparkinsonscoach.co.uk/
