People living with Parkinson’s in Pembrokeshire are invited to join strength classes to help manage their symptoms and to live well with the condition.

Strength Academy Wales, with funding by a Parkinson's UK’s Physical Activity Grant, runs the sessions at the Pembrokeshire Sports Village in Haverfordwest which include a wide range of exercises including a strength and conditioning programme. The training is functional, and targets all body parts, building leg strength, core stability, improving posture, shoulder health, balance and muscle building.

Created by the lead volunteer Simon Roach, the programme offers two dedicated strength training sessions per week on Mondays and Fridays at 10.30am designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s.

The sessions go beyond exercise—they create a welcoming space where participants can improve their health, regain confidence, and connect with others on a similar journey.

Parkinson's is a complex brain condition that gets worse over time. It’s the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, affecting around 8,300 in Wales.

It has more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety, and there is currently no cure. Taking part in regular physical activity can help people living with long term health conditions, such as Parkinson’s, to improve their wellbeing and to better manage their symptoms.

The programme is delivered in a laid-back, personable way, creating a culture, environment and atmosphere where socialising and connecting with other people is as big a part of each session as the actual physical exercise and strength conditioning.
The programme is delivered in a laid-back, personable way, creating a culture, environment and atmosphere where socialising and connecting with other people is as big a part of each session as the actual physical exercise and strength conditioning. (Pic supplied)

The sessions in Haverfordwest have been made possible with Parkinson’s UK Physical Activity Grants which help fund activity providers to give people with Parkinson's more opportunities to get and stay active.

Simon Roach, Volunteer Director and Head Coach at Strength Academy Wales said: “Our Parkinson’s Strength Group is about more than lifting weights — it’s about lifting each other up. The sessions are totally inclusive and no weight lifting experience is required. It’s a shining example of how strength training can be a powerful tool — not just for physical improvement, but for building a strong, supportive community. So if you live with Parkinson’s in Pembrokeshire, come and join us!”

“Out of all the community programmes we deliver, this one is particularly close to my heart. My father, born and raised in Haverfordwest, lived with Parkinson’s, and I saw firsthand how strength training at home helped him maintain his mobility and independence for longer.

“To now be able to offer a structured, supportive programme for others in the Parkinson’s community is incredibly meaningful to me. Knowing that we are helping people stay active, build strength, and connect with others makes this work truly fulfilling .”

Dawn McGuinness, Wales Community Development Manager at Parkinson’s UK Cymru said: “Being active is so important for people with Parkinson’s as it can help manage symptoms, maintain health and lift your mood.

“The more physically active you are, the easier it is to live well with the condition.“Getting involved in the community is a lifeline for many people living with the condition so we’re delighted that we’re able to support Strength Academy Wales to offer weightlifting and strength sessions for the Parkinson’s community in Pembrokeshire."

To sign-up for free or to find out more, visit: www.strengthacademy.wales/wellbeing