Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that occurs when the brain cells which make dopamine start to die, causing issues such as tremors, slowness of movement and muscle stiffness. The condition can affect anyone at any age. There is no cure for Parkinson’s right now and patients receive treatment and drugs to ease the symptoms, which can get worse over time.

Research suggests physical activity, including table tennis, has been shown to to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms through the concept of neuroplasticity – the brain’s capacity to make new neurons and connections through challenging physical exercise.

Leona Braund, a PE teacher from Ayrshire, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s some 10 years ago. Discovering table tennis has been transformative.

It’s joyful, fun and gives me the belief and self-confidence to be myself. It’s given me friendships, love and support from so many people with Parkinson’s who love table tennis from across the UK, Iceland, Denmark, Scotland, England, Sweden and Portugal.

Players of all ages and abilities will be welcome at clubs’ social sessions across Scotland. There are also an increasing number of clubs offering sessions specifically for people with Parkinson’s. These can currently be found in South Ayrshire, Glasgow, Perth and Dundee.

Table Tennis Scotland and Parkinson’s UK share a vision to expand awareness of the benefits of TT, promote existing clubs/sessions and increase the opportunities for people to pick up a bat and have a go, across Scotland.

If you’d like to find out where to play near you, or if you’re interested in offering sessions, please email us on info@tabletennisscotland.co.uk

We’ve signed an agreement with Parkinsons UK to increase opportunities for people with Parkinson’s to play the sport across Scotland.

We’re working on training coaches to support people with Parkinson’s to play. We recently delivered our first in-person training session for coaches, where they learned about Parkinson’s and how they can tailor their approach to people with the condition.

We recorded the session, which was held at the Scottish Parkinson’s International Table Tennis Open, so the video can be used to help with training at other clubs and centres.

We’re also raising awareness of Parkinson’s amongst local club contacts and volunteers, encouraging them to consider starting sessions for people with Parkinson’s. We’re offering funding to start up new groups too.

So far there are 7 dedicated table tennis sessions for people with Parkinson’s across Scotland, in South Ayrshire, Glasgow, Perth and Dundee. There are also several opportunities to play at clubs that are Parkinson’s-friendly, but open to all.

A fantastic way to keep active

“We’ve seen interest in table tennis really take off among people living with Parkinson’s in Scotland,” says Amanda McKay, Physical Activity Delivery Manager for Parkinson’s UK in Scotland.

“We’re now committing, through this new agreement, to make it possible for even more people with the condition to try table tennis.

“It’s a fantastic way to keep active and can help people with Parkinson’s improve their balance, strength and coordination, and boost their physical and mental wellbeing.”

Richard Yule, Chief Operating Officer of Table Tennis Scotland, adds: “We’re delighted to partner with Parkinson’s UK on this brilliant initiative to promote the benefits of table tennis to people with Parkinson’s.

“Players of all ages and abilities are welcome at our clubs’ social sessions across Scotland and there are also an increasing number of clubs offering sessions specifically for people with Parkinson’s.”

Benefits of physical activity

Brian Carson, the Scotland Trustee for Parkinson’s UK, is also chair of the Scottish Parkinson’s Table Tennis Association. He’s part of the organising committee for the Scottish International Open too. He set up a successful weekly table tennis session for people with Parkinson’s in Drumchapel in 2023.

Brian, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2017, says: “For me personally, table tennis is helping with my movement and responses. But as well as the benefits, physically, mentally and socially, it’s really great fun. I’ve met so many people who are part of the community, from all over the world.

“Taking part in any kind of physical activity can help people manage the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s while also having a positive impact on the mental health of participants through the social aspect.

“I’m delighted to see this push to offer more people in Scotland the chance to try”