Batting with Parkinson’s Table Tennis

A personalised table tennis project in a friendly environment aiming to help players manage their symptoms.

• Beginners and experienced players are welcome. There are no age limits.
• We welcome players from different cultural groups.
• Carers and family members are welcome.
• No booking is required, just register with Philip Cheung and turn up.
• Accessible parking, toilets and changing rooms are available.
• Lift is available at the reception areas.

A maximum of 8-10 players can be accommodated in a session. If demand is greater then another day of the week can be provided.

The centre is fully equipped with tables permanently set up. Bats and balls are provided. There is a robot which can be used for training skills.

Players should wear court shoes or trainers and generally wear T-shirts, joggers or shorts. It is advisable to bring a water bottle.

Depending on the players’ physical ability, one-to-one practice is offered.

Frequent practice is essential. We recommend home based practice using provided videos showing how to use
the bat, footwork, and movement. Players who are prone to freezing, shuffling and falling will be given videos to help them improve their walking. Motivation is important for improvement.

There are no formal meetings as such but initially new comers are invited to describe their difficulties so that
an appropriate programme can be put together to improve table tennis techniques and performance. Players are given advice on how to develop footwork, movement, balance and co-ordination. Players are encouraged to reach a level whereby they can compete with other players who do not have a disability.

Philip Cheung, Project Host oversees the running of the project. He is also an experienced table tennis player
who can coach. There is an experienced trainer, Steve Dickinson, who can also advise players.

On a regular basis we have social events with food and drink for players and carers and relatives. Non PD Players are invited to join the project group. We’ve a tournament twice a year within the project group and
with non-PD players.

£2.50 for members; carers - no payment required; Family members who play pay £2.50 (Normal charge £6.00).