Following the launch of PD Challenge exercise classes in January 2025, registered charity BH Live caught up with some of the participants at BH Live Active, Littledown to explore how the programme has supported their wellbeing 

As we approach World Parkinson’s Day (11 April 2026), members of the group have reflected on the physical, emotional and social benefits they’ve gained, sharing how these weekly group exercise and movement classes have become an important and uplifting part of their routine.

Classes are led by Viv Galpin, BH Live’s Bournemouth Health & Wellbeing Manager, who delivers the programme every Thursday afternoon at BH Live Active, Littledown.

“Seeing the positive impact of the PD Challenge sessions on our participants is incredibly rewarding,” says Viv. “Each week, participants turn up with determination, humour, and a real sense of care for one another.

“The classes are helping people build confidence and form meaningful connections, creating a supportive and encouraging environment. I’m delighted that the programme’s first year has been such a success.”

Developed using the latest research and guidance from Parkinson’s UK, the PD Challenge classes include exercises designed to improve strength, mobility and confidence. Movements are intentionally large, exaggerated and performed at a quick pace, aiming to retrain muscles and help slow the progression of symptoms associated with Parkinson’s.

Tina and Darren are one couple benefitting from the weekly sessions.

“Everyone is in the same boat,” says Darren. “It’s important to socialise and meet other people who understand the same challenges you’re facing. We all share tips and tricks to help us cope as the disease progresses. Viv and the team are brilliant. It’s great to join in sessions that welcome participants with all stages of Parkinson’s.”

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to speak with other carers. It makes you realise you’re not alone,” Darren’s wife, Tina, says. “The sessions are absolutely brilliant. Viv and the team do a fantastic job in motivating everyone to come back each week.”

Jill added;

“When you have Parkinson’s, you can sometimes feel a bit self-conscious when you can’t walk, speak, or have control over things. But Viv and the team are so great at raising your spirits thanks to their enthusiasm and perseverance. They bring smiles and so much energy to our lives, changing them for the better.”

The sessions have been proven to have many physical benefits, as well as mental.

“It’s really improved my strength,” says Anne. “I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in September 2024 and signed up for the sessions when they launched in January 2025. I can now lift and pour my heavy kettle at home to make myself a cup of tea!”

Mike and Keith joined the sessions upon their launch in 2025 and have since become fast friends.

“PD Challenge is great fun,” says Mike. “It’s an opportunity to do some exercise, and it’s really helped my symptoms. I can even get my feet off the ground now when I do star jumps!”

“Everyone comes back week on week,” says Keith. “We’re a real community here. We keep each other going.”

Dennis is one of the newest participants of the PD Challenge sessions, having joined just three months ago.

“The group is so welcoming and friendly. It’s really great to socialise and exercise in a group setting with other people who understand you as the disease progresses.”

Parkinson’s UK awarded a funding boost of more than £1,500 from their Physical Activity Grants programme in 2024 to help BH Live start the new classes.

The first PD Challenge session at Littledown is free to take part, with subsequent classes charged at a subsidised rate of £3.50 per person. All ages and abilities are welcome to come along and take part, and relatives, carers, and other supporters are also welcome to watch, or join in as well.

On behalf of Parkinson’s UK, Roma Hashim, Physical Activity Grants Manager, shared;

“It’s great to see the success of the BH Live classes for local people living with Parkinson’s. 

“Being active can be one of the best ways to live well with any long term health condition, especially Parkinson’s, and it’s really inspiring to hear how so many people are engaging with the sessions.”

BH Live is committed to inspiring more people to improve their health and wellbeing by moving more regularly and reducing barriers to physical activity. Other health and wellbeing initiatives in Bournemouth include Swim Free in Pregnancy, Rise and Shine and Beat The Pause menopause sessions, guided health walks, and much more.

For more information about BH Live’s health and wellbeing programmes, visit bhliveactive.org.uk/health-and-wellbeing-activities.

Littledown Centre is operated by BH Live in partnership with BCP Council. BH Live is a registered charity and social enterprise.

For more information about BH Live, visit bhlive.org.uk.