May 4, 2026

A new free non-contact boxing class for people living with Parkinson’s has launched in Hammersmith, offering a weekly opportunity to get active, build confidence and connect with others in a supportive environment.

The sessions, run by Parky Power and supported by England Boxing and Parkinson’s UK, take place every Wednesday from 5pm to 6pm at Charing Cross Sports Club on Aspenlea Road (W6 8LH). The class is open to anyone in the borough and the surrounding Central London area who is living with Parkinson’s.

The group, known as Parky Blinders, is led by experienced instructors who specialise in adapting physical activity for people with Parkinson’s. The classes introduce participants to the basic principles of non-contact boxing in a relaxed, controlled setting, using punch bags and pads rather than sparring.

Non-contact boxing has grown rapidly in popularity across the UK as a way for people with long-term health conditions to stay active. Research suggests it can support better balance, coordination and strength, reduce the risk of falls, improve memory and cognitive skills, and provide an important social outlet.

Beate Vogt, Activity Coordinator at Power Up Parkies, said the sessions are as enjoyable as they are beneficial. “At Parky Blinders we have fun while working out, have a great playlist to box to and often go for a drink and a chat afterwards. I would definitely recommend the sessions to anyone who wants to give something new a go — you would definitely enjoy it.”

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition with more than 40 possible symptoms, including tremor, pain, fatigue and anxiety. Someone in the UK is diagnosed every 20 minutes, and global numbers are expected to double to 25 million by 2050. Parkinson’s UK, the leading European funder of Parkinson’s research, says physical activity is one of the most effective ways to help people manage symptoms and maintain wellbeing.

The charity highlights a wide range of benefits linked to regular movement, including improved mobility, flexibility, speech, memory, mood and social connection.

Power Up Parkies, which runs the new class, already delivers a variety of group-based exercise sessions for people with Parkinson’s in Hammersmith — from aqua aerobics and Tai Chi to walking football and boxing. The organisation emphasises that the post-session coffee and conversation have become just as important as the exercise itself in building a sense of community.

Anyone interested in joining the new non-contact boxing sessions can contact Beate Vogt at beate@powerupparkies.com or call 07879 658 558.

For information and support on Parkinson’s, visit parkinsons.org.uk or call the charity’s free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 0303.

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