An INVERNESS-BASED nordic walking instructor is aiming to help people with Parkinson’s through exercise
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The pilot project is a joint effort from Partnerships for Wellbeing and the charity Parkinson’s UK to help people with the condition get more fresh air and exercise.
Karen Powell (58), from Scourgie, has been teaching the skill of nordic walking since 2010 and was approached by Partnerships for Wellbeing project manager Kate Thomson to get on board with the scheme.
Nordic walking is a form of brisk walking using walking poles, designed to make people walk in a more natural and aerobic way.
For those with Parkinson’s the activity can help to manage their symptoms including tremors and assist with gait, balance and strength.
It also helps improve sleep, concentration and mood.
The12-week pilot project sees group members meet once a week on Thursdays to walk around Bught Park.
Miss Powell said it was a great chance to help, and also just to give people some company.
“The project aims to encourage people living with Parkinson’s to walk and to improve their walking,” she said. “Using the poles is particularly great.
“We do lots of warm ups and little drills and it really helps them engage their minds and to work that sensory motor system that gets you walking properly and helps their posture.
“It’s just such a great thing for them to do. It’s such a lovely group and the comradery of the whole group is brilliant
“ I’m really enjoying it.”
Miss Powell is joined by two volunteers for each session, working together to help support group members.
