'I set up a boxing class to help people with Parkinson's'

A woman who was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's disease has set up a boxing class as a way to empower others and help them manage their symptoms.

Anne Pearce, 58, said after experiencing the physical and emotional challenges of the condition first-hand, she discovered that boxing could significantly improve balance, strength, coordination and overall well-being.

Unable to find a class that matched her work commitments, she took the initiative to start her own at Trident Fitness in Morley, Leeds.

She said: "I know by taking control and doing this exercise it helps me to feel as fit as I can for as long as I can."

Parkinson's is a progressive disorder that affects the brain, nervous system, and muscle control.

It is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, with about 153,000 people in the UK living with the condition.

There is currently no cure for it but treatments are available to help relieve the symptoms.

Mrs Pearce was diagnosed three years ago, decades after her brother John was told he had the disease.

She now experiences stiff joints, low mood and anxiety and struggles with insomnia, fatigue and her balance.

"It wasn't a total shock, but it was a diagnosis I never wanted but I guess I knew would come one day," she said.

Inspired by how her brother faced his diagnosis despite his health declining over the years, Mrs Pearce said she realised the importance of looking after herself.

When she overheard someone say how boxing had helped them manage their symptoms, she began looking into it.

"It's hugely important to have the opportunity to access Parkinson's specific exercise classes," she said.

"It's almost as if exercise should be on prescription because it's the only thing known to slow down the progression."

The classes at Trident, which take place Thursdays at 18:30 and Saturdays at 10:00, started in November and are partly funded by England Boxing and Parkinson's UK.

Mrs Pearce said the class was hugely popular and gave people a welcoming space to openly share their experiences.

"Everyone's Parkinson's journey is very individual," she said.

"Some people will have a tremor, some won't, some will have stiffness, some people's posture will be really challenged - no two people's journeys are the same."

Mrs Pearce said she was grateful for the support she had received in setting up the classes.

She also helps run Yorkshire and Humber Younger Person's Support Group which supports people under 67 living with Parkinson's.

"We try and uplift people as much as we can and lead by example," she said.

"Whilst we live with Parkinson's, we all live very full lives."

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