Empowering people with various brain related conditions to live a healthier lifestyle.
As a community based football club, we know how beneficial football can be in empowering and uniting people.
Neurological condition such as Alzheimers, Dementia, Parkinson’s and other brain and muscle related conditions are now a common occurrence. these conditions are often a silent condition where the diagnosis is gradual rather than a quick onset. After the success of our Parkinson’s walking football sessions last year , we have decided to include anyone , with any stage of a condition to include Alzheimers, dementia , Parkinson’s and other brain related conditions.
Walking football can simnifically benefit individuals by improving their physical and mental well being, it helps manage symptoms, enhances coordination, balance, mobility and offers social interaction , combating feelings of isolation.
What football offers more is that is the multitude of skills needed. if you just run or box then your body is concentrated on the movement of arms or legs, whereas walking football uses the concept of space, thinking of the next pass, remembering the number of touches allowed, trying not to run. Football uses so many different muscles and brain cells that it is a fantastic way for participants to exercise both mind and body.
Through our experience of last year, sessions are tailored to suit those that wish to take part as we work closely with community groups involved with helping and guiding people battling these conditions. The sessions are relaxed , light and are made to be enjoyable was well as providing a level of physical fitness. Players often stay and chat about how they feel, their symptoms and how they deal with the day to day living with these conditions.
Carers are welcome to come along and either watch or join in. Football is about inclusion and if playing walking football alongside your friend or partner helps you feel connected then that is always a positive element .
The sessions are funded by both the National League Trust and the Berks & Bucks FA and allows the session to be free of charge. There is plenty of parking onsite too. We do ask players to wear sporty attire and normal trainers.
For further details and information please contact adrian.gomm@sloughtownfc.net
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