Table Tennis for Parkinson's

Table Tennis is universally accepted as helping manage Parkinson's disease by combining fast-paced aerobic exercise, hand-eye coordination, and rapid decision-making. It stimulates neuroplasticity, improves balance, and reduces muscle stiffness while offering a fun, social community that fights isolation. 

A new partnership organisation PETT between Parkinson's UK, Table Tennis England and Parkinson's England Table Tennis has just been established aiming to get more people with Parkinson's into the sport. And to raise awareness of the benefits of table tennis for people living with Parkinson's.

In partnership with Draycott and Long Eaton Table Tennis Club we are launching a Table Tennis Group, specifically for people with Parkinson's. Sessions take place at Draycott Table Tennis Centre, the home of Draycott and Long Eaton Table Tennis Club.

This is a purpose-built facility with two halls accommodating up to nine international tournament standard tables. The Club is the biggest table tennis club in the East Midlands with the centre located on New St, Draycott, (DE72 3LZ) midway between Derby and Nottingham, only 5 minutes from Junction 25 of the M1. Ample car parking is available on site, and the Trent Barton Nottingham/Derby Indigo Bus Stop (Draycott Square) is only 200 yards from our front door. 

Sessions are weekly on Thursday afternoons from 2.30pm to 4.30pm. They are hosted by two keen table tennis players both working towards qualifying as Table Tennis England Coaching Assistants, one of whom has Parkinson's himself, in partnership with Draycott and Long Eaton Table Tennis Club. The first taster session is free. Cost thereafter is £3.00 per session but one person accompanying the person with Parkinson's can play for free. We just ask that, if necessary, playing priority be given to those with Parkinson's.

The sessions are aimed at everyone from the returning player to the absolute beginner. Carers, Spouses etc. are welcome. We aim to keep the format fun, flexible and Parkinson's friendly. All equipment is provided - bats, balls etc. We ask participants to wear sports shoes with non-marking soles and appropriate loose clothing for those playing. Bringing a water bottle is also advised. The centre has a breakout area where we can provide tea, coffee and biscuits whilst having the opportunity for a social chat about all things Parkinson's and Table Tennis. People can stop during the sessions whenever they want to take a break.

If you would like to come along and have some fun playing this brilliant sport, or if you would like more information, please contact Peter using the details below.