A strength training gym in Pembrokeshire is helping more Parkinson’s communities across West Wales to live well in the spring and beyond.

Strength Academy Wales (SAW) is a voluntary organisation which offers inclusive opportunities for health, fitness and wellbeing to help all ages and abilities enjoy an active lifestyle in Haverfordwest and the surrounding areas.

SAW offers support to people living with Parkinson’s through strength training classes which are delivered at a purpose-built gym in Haverfordwest and have been part-funded by Parkinson’s UK.

Simon Roach is the Lead Volunteer at Strength Academy Wales, and his personal connection to Parkinson’s inspired him to support local people living with the condition.

Simon said: “Strength Academy Wales (SAW) is a not-for-profit, volunteer-led community hub in Pembrokeshire. We use strength training as a way to support people’s health, wellbeing and connection with others and our programmes are open to all ages and abilities.

“I founded SAW after many years of coaching weightlifting and strength sports, and I’ve seen how powerful this type of training can be - not just for physical progress, but also for confidence and community.

“I also have my own personal connection to Parkinson’s, as my father lived with the condition.

“That experience made me determined to create something meaningful for others locally. I was also encouraged by a retired GP, who is part of our Age Well programme, to explore how strength training could benefit people living with Parkinson’s. With support from Parkinson’s UK, we launched the Parkinson’s Strength Group.

“We started small, but word spread quickly and the sessions have now grown into an established and much-valued part of our timetable.

“The idea of delivering a strength based training class has always been something that’s close to me, particularly because of my father’s experience.

“I know how tough it can be for people with Parkinson’s and their families to find the right opportunities to stay active. When the chance came to shape a programme at SAW, it felt very natural to do so,” he continued.

“I wanted to offer a safe, welcoming space, where people could build strength, move with more confidence, and also feel the benefit of being with others who understand their challenges. Supporting people with Parkinson’s has become a really important part of what we do at SAW, and I’m proud of the impact it is making.

“I have been involved in coaching Olympic Weightlifting and strength sports for many years, from grassroots through to high performance, but what has always driven me is the belief that strength training is for everyone. I’ve seen time and again how it can help people of all ages and backgrounds to move more, feel healthier, and gain confidence.

“My aim was always to create a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven hub where strength could be used as a tool for wellbeing and inclusion. Over the years we’ve developed programmes for older adults, unpaid carers, people living with dementia, arthritis and now Parkinson’s,” he added.

The Parkinson’s sessions continue to go from strength to strength at Strength Academy Wales and the team has recently invited new community volunteers to support the team.

Strength Academy Wales continues to support people living with Parkinson’s to live well with the condition.

Find out more about SAW by visiting their website at https://www.strengthacademy.wales/