A WOMAN with Parkinson's has been inspired to take on more physical activities after taking part in Walking Football sessions.
Karen McBride was diagnosed with the disease two years ago and decided to try out Parkinson's Walking Football after a friend encouraged her to attend the sessions which are organised by Glasgow Life.
Karen, whose current symptoms are right hand and leg tremors, says she was surprised by how much she enjoyed the classes at Toryglen Regional Football Centre and has since tried out table tennis and yoga.
The 51-year-old said: "If someone had said to me two years ago that I’d be doing all these activities I would have laughed at them.
"I really hadn’t taken part in much physical activity or done anything like this for years and I was quite surprised at how much I really enjoyed it.
"After going along to the walking football I started thinking - what else can I do?
"There were people at that class who were also joining in at a new Parkinson’s Table Tennis class and I thought I’d give that a go and it’s been great.
"I’ve also tried a local seated yoga class.
"I love it all and never thought I’d say I do all of this."
She added: "I love going out to meet people.
"I look forward to my class and I like having it as my time.
"I’d say to anyone thinking of joining a class or starting an activity to just go along.
"Try it for two weeks.
"Taking part in an activity is brilliant fun and you get to meet other people with Parkinson’s.
"Everyone’s journey is different so there is no point comparing yourself to people."
Matt Ramsay, football participation officer at Glasgow Life, said: "Over the past six months we have seen many people living with Parkinson’s enjoy and experience the many benefits of taking part in Walking Football, not just physically but mentally and socially too.
"Our testing and studies have shown that walking football has a huge impact on the individuals dealing with their condition, however, most importantly those who attend each week play with a smile on their face."
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Amanda McKay, Parkinson’s Active project support officer, added: "It has been great to see Karen enjoy our Walking Football sessions in partnership with Glasgow Life along with so many other participants.
"Walking Football is just one of a number of physical activities people with Parkinson’s can get involved in and is a great way to make new friends, manage symptoms and most importantly have fun."
Parkinson's Walking Football sessions take place at Toryglen Regional Football Centre every Thursday from 11am to 12pm.
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