Residents living with Parkinson's across Barking and Dagenham can access free fitness memberships at both Abbey Leisure Centre and Becontree Heath Leisure Centre through a partnership between local leisure operator Everyone Active and Parkinson's UK.
The two Barking and Dagenham facilities are participating in this nationwide initiative, which provides full access to gym facilities, swimming pools and exercise classes for patients and up to three of their carers.
This April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month and Everyone Active, which manages local facilities in partnership with London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, is urging more residents living with Parkinson’s to take advantage of the scheme.
The free membership programme, now in its fourth year nationally, aims to help those managing the progressive neurological condition, which causes symptoms ranging from tremors and pain to anxiety.
Currently, 40 people in Barking and Dagenham benefit from the scheme, with numbers increasing in recent years, reflecting the global rise in Parkinson’s cases.
One of them is 49-year-old Becontree Heath member, Karen Cottrell, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 46 and uses the facility around twice a week.
"I've been a member for two years and mainly use the centre for the classes but sometimes I will use the gym too. I really enjoy the classes - I've tried a few different ones but body combat and body conditioning are my favourite so far.
"I'm only early stages of Parkinson's but exercise is one of the best things and I feel so much better mentally after my classes. I totally recommend Everyone Active for anyone suffering with Parkinson's. The membership is easy to apply for and because it includes all of the classes too, I'm sure there's something for everyone."
Hasan Romel, Everyone Active's area contract manager for Barking and Dagenham, said: “We are immensely proud to be partnering with Parkinson’s UK for the fourth year running, and truly believe the membership makes a real difference to the lives of those living with the condition and their carers.
"Physical activity plays a crucial role in symptom management and we’re creating an environment at both our local centres where people with Parkinson's and their support networks can exercise with confidence."
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham council, said: “I’m pleased to see the partnership between Everyone Active and Parkinson’s UK go from strength to strength. Being physically active is important for everyone and it's fantastic that more people across Barking and Dagenham will have an opportunity to benefit from free membership."
The initiative comes as medical professionals increasingly recognise exercise as a key component in maintaining quality of life for those with the condition.
Beyond traditional gym activities, participants can access specialised Synergy Dance classes online, designed to accommodate varying mobility levels.
Medical clearance is recommended for those with additional health conditions before beginning new exercise routines.