The British Cycling Foundation and Parkinson’s UK have partnered to help break down barriers to cycling for those living with Parkinson’s through a pilot programme of activity.
Parkinson’s UK will become the British Cycling Foundation’s first funding partner. The collaboration aims to provide training to coaches and volunteers, improving understanding of how cycling can benefit people with Parkinson’s and raising awareness of the condition.
Research suggests being active for 2.5 hours a week can help manage Parkinson’s symptoms, improve mobility, balance and strength, while also supporting mental wellbeing and confidence.
The partnership will involve the co-creation of training modules shaped by lived experience. These are designed to give coaches and volunteers the knowledge and confidence to deliver inclusive cycling sessions tailored for people with the condition.
British Cycling is the national governing body for the sport of cycling in Great Britain. Its foundation arm works to tackle inequalities and provide social mobility opportunities through the sport.
A pilot project will launch in four sites across Great Britain to test and refine the approach to cycling sessions. This builds on British Cycling’s Limitless programme – its flagship disability and para-cycling project – which has already supported people with Parkinson’s to discover the joy of cycling.
Parkinson’s UK is the UK’s largest charity supporting those with the condition. It notes that Parkinson’s is a complex brain condition that has no cure and gets worse over time, with more than 40 symptoms including tremors, pain and anxiety.
One person benefiting from the sport is Graham, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in October 2017 at the age of 55. By rediscovering cycling, he was able to come to terms with his diagnosis and find a community of other riders.
Graham said “If I could offer any advice for someone with Parkinson’s who wants to be active, then find an activity that you enjoy, as if you don’t enjoy it, you won’t do it. Don’t worry about what you can’t do, adapt and enjoy what you can do and challenge yourself.
“Cycling helps me to manage some of my Parkinson’s symptoms and I’ve noticed an increase in my fitness levels, plus everyday tasks have become easier. After my diagnosis I struggled with anxiety but cycling and walking have contributed to a big improvement in my wellbeing.”
Tracy Power, Managing Director of the British Cycling Foundation, said “We’re thrilled to be working with Parkinson’s UK, as we look to bring the joy of cycling to those who need it most. This partnership gives us the opportunity to create more spaces where cycling is accessible, enjoyable and supportive for all.
“The impact of this work could be genuinely life-changing for people who may not have seen cycling as an option to support their health and wellbeing. Fighting inequalities is at the heart of what we do, and it’s vital that communities’ needs are understood and met. Working with experts such as Parkinson’s UK helps us to better understand the people we’re supporting and how best to meet their needs.”
Anna Castiaux, Physical Activity Programme Lead at Parkinson’s UK, said “Being active can be one of the best ways to live well with Parkinson’s and I’m delighted to have agreed this new partnership with British Cycling.
“The partnership will give more cycling instructors, coaches and volunteers a better understanding of Parkinson’s as a condition and help them to tailor their sessions more effectively.
“Whether you’re a keen cyclist or you’re just getting started, my hope is that this new offer will also allow more people with Parkinson’s to enjoy the physical, social and wellbeing benefits of cycling.”
According to Parkinson’s UK, someone is diagnosed with the condition every 20 minutes in the UK. By 2050, the number of people with Parkinson’s is expected to reach 25 million.
www.britishcycling.org.uk
www.parkinsons.org.uk
