We're inviting anyone affected by Parkinson's to come along and try one of our free exercise taster sessions, taking place across the Highlands in the lead-up to World Parkinson's Day on Saturday 11 April.
Free sessions are available in Inverness, Nairn, Wick, Grantown-on-Spey, and Dingwall — and they're open to both new and existing customers at no cost.
Why exercise matters for people living with Parkinson's
Parkinson's is the world's fastest-growing neurological condition, affecting around 600 people in the Highlands and approximately 13,000 people across Scotland. It occurs when the brain cells responsible for producing dopamine begin to die, and can present in more than 40 different ways — including tremors, pain, balance issues, sleep difficulties, and anxiety.
Exercise is widely recognised as one of the most effective ways to help people live well with Parkinson's. Specially designed sessions support participants to manage their symptoms, maintain independence, and stay socially connected.
We see first-hand the benefits that Parkinson's classes bring to participants across our facilities. Feedback consistently shows that the classes help people manage symptoms and stay active for longer. Participants also value meeting others who understand their experiences. There may be people locally who don't yet know these classes exist, and we want to encourage them to come along and give the taster sessions a try. These special sessions are completely free for both new and existing customers as part of our activities marking World Parkinson's Day.
Activities Development Officer
What's on and where
Inverness Leisure — Monday 6 April
A fun, welcoming afternoon of activities with teas, coffees, and traybakes, including:
- 13:45–14:15 — Parkinson's Beats drumming session
- 14:30–15:00 — Strength and balance session
- 15:10–15:30 — Pilates ball and shaker class
In between sessions, enjoy memory games, relaxed conversation, refreshments, and the chance to meet representatives from the Parkinson's Table Tennis Club.
Nairn Leisure Centre — Tuesday 7 April, 10:00–11:00
A Parkinson's-friendly dynamic wellbeing session at the Seamans Hall.
Wick Assembly Rooms — Friday 10 April, 14:00–16:00
A friendly coffee afternoon with the local Parkinson's exercise instructor, optional taster sessions, and social time. Organised by the team at the East Caithness Community Facility.
Craig MacLean Leisure Centre, Grantown-on-Spey — Friday 10 April, 12:00–13:00
A Parkinson's-friendly dynamic wellbeing session at the sports centre.
Dingwall Leisure Centre — Tuesday 21 April, 15:00–16:30
Dingwall and Averon Leisure Centres have joined forces to deliver an afternoon of group exercise classes, table tennis, and refreshments.
Join a class near you
If you or someone you know could benefit from our Parkinson's exercise programme, we'd love to welcome you along. The taster sessions are a relaxed, friendly way to find out what's available — no experience or fitness level required.
For more information visit our Parkinson's exercise page, email parkinsonsexercise@highlifehighland.com or call 01463 667500.
