Mold classes help residents manage Parkinson’s symptoms
A Flintshire resident living with Parkinson’s is encouraging others to take up non-contact boxing classes in Mold to help manage the condition and maintain independence.
Alyn Edwards, from Pontybodkin, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s during the Covid pandemic after noticing a tremor in his hand following a gym session. He had previously served for more than 40 years with North Wales Fire Service.
He now attends twice-weekly boxing sessions designed for people with Parkinson’s, funded through a physical activity grant from Parkinson’s UK. The classes focus on controlled boxing movements aimed at improving balance, coordination, strength and mental wellbeing.
Alyn said: “The boxing included in our sessions is not about fighting; it’s about the physical act of throwing a punch, which forces you to twist and engage your core, drastically improving my coordination and balance which can be impacted by Parkinson’s. Everyone at the gym is there to keep fit, and many people admire people with Parkinson’s confidence and determination to live well with the condition.”
The sessions form part of a wider programme of activities available locally for people living with Parkinson’s.
Wendy Allison, community development coordinator for north Wales at Parkinson’s UK Cymru, said: “Being active when you live with Parkinson’s can be a great way to help manage some of the symptoms.
“Around 166,000 people have a diagnosis of Parkinson’s in the UK, including around 8,600 in Wales. It’s therefore vital that we continue to raise awareness of this condition. We’re committed to offering support for people in their local communities and in Flintshire we have a range of activities in addition to boxing including dance, tai chi and boccia.”
The boxing sessions are led by exercise specialist Jess Wellstead, who designs classes specifically for people living with the condition.
She said: “Boxing-based exercise has strong evidence supporting its benefits for people living with Parkinson’s and I design each session to also incorporate large movements, rotational exercises and targeted balance work. My aim is to create a welcoming and safe environment where people feel encouraged and empowered to challenge themselves at their own pace. With the incredible support of Parkinson’s UK and their Physical Activity Grant, the Stronger with Parkinson’s class was able to launch, bringing together people with shared lived experience to benefit from exercise in a supportive setting. It is rewarding to see participants improve and grow in confidence.”
World Parkinson’s Day is marked in April each year to raise awareness of the condition and highlight support available to those affected.
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