A gym membership helps me to manage my Parkinson's - John's story
When John’s wife noticed his movement was getting slower, he naturally put the symptoms down to the ageing process. But 3 years ago, aged 79, John was diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
Recently, John has taken advantage of a free gym membership to help him keep moving and enjoy an active lifestyle. He shares his story here.
My Parkinson’s diagnosis didn’t affect me too much, as I understood that Parkinson’s affects everyone in different ways. I knew that some people might continue for quite a long time with no significant symptoms, while others would develop more symptoms over the same period of time.
I knew from the outset that Parkinson’s could lead to increased stiffness and slowness of movement. The information I received after my diagnosis emphasised the importance of physical activity, getting out and exercising.
During the pandemic I made a habit of going out for a walk on most days and that pattern continued after my diagnosis. Then a friend who has Parkinson's suggested trying some of the machines at my local leisure centre, as they could be beneficial for my symptoms, so I applied for a free membership.
I knew that I was using muscles I hadn’t used for some time
Nobody would ever describe me as a 'gym bunny', but I have to say that I’ve become very keen on using the facilities at the leisure centre.
As soon as I started using the machines, I knew that I was using muscles I hadn’t used for some time! But I was gaining better core strength and improving my fitness.
More recently, I’ve taken the opportunity to work with a personal trainer and the weekly sessions have led to a considerable increase in my core strength and fitness. I’m much more active now and feel much fitter and healthier.
It’s also important to maintain a degree of flexibility and remember that you will need to rest. So after an active day it’s perfectly alright to have a quieter, more restful day.
When I’ve been active I feel better, not just physically, but better mentally too. It really gives you a lift and after my gym sessions I feel like I‘m able to get more enjoyment out of life.
4 days of my week are active days
When I’m active, my aim is usually to try and visit the leisure centre twice a week and it’s important to try and vary what you do. I also like to do Tai Chi, which helps with balance, and high intensity physical training. It often means that 4 days of my week are active days.
Regular trips to the gym make exercise easier and it can be helpful to build physical activity into your routine. Set yourself achievable goals and make it a habit!
Often I see the same people at the gym too. We’re all sharing similar experiences, so it can be a very social activity and a great way to make new friends.
When I’ve been active I feel better, not just physically, but better mentally too. It really gives you a lift and after my gym sessions I feel like I‘m able to get more enjoyment out of life.
Take being active seriously
It’s important to remember that it is possible to live well with Parkinson's, if you try.
Not everyone will want to use a gym. Before I had my Parkinson’s diagnosis, walking was always my preferred way to stay active and I was a member of the Ramblers Association for many years. Even if you go for a walk on a rainy day, you will still feel better than if you stayed at home.
Without the support of the people I’ve met at my local Everyone Active gym and my local Parkinson’s UK group I wouldn’t have made as much progress as I have since my diagnosis.
I’ve noticed that my family tends to worry a bit less when they know I’m taking responsibility for my condition, keeping active and adopting a positive approach to living with the condition. They often say that they’re quite proud of what I’m achieving.
Get Active Stay Active
Parkinson's UK is working in partnership with Everyone Active Leisure Centres to offer free gym memberships for people with Parkinson's and their carers, who are living in England.
You can find your nearest Everyone Active leisure centre here.