Parkinson's Specialist Physio - Lois Rosenthal

Off the back of our recent partnership with Parkinson’s UK we are delighted that Parkinson’s Specialist Physio, Lois Rosenthal will also play a huge part in the support of our new programme delivery.

Lois is no stranger to walking football and has been involved with the Glasgow Life programme for the last number of years, signposting clients and fully understands the many benefits walking football brings and impact it can have on someone’s life.

Speaking on that impact, Lois said: “Walking football for Parkinson’s ticks so many boxes that physios are aiming for when we think about exercise for our clients with this condition. We know from research that exercise has huge benefits for both physical and mental health. Not only that, there is also emerging evidence to suggest that exercise may slow down progression of Parkinson’s.

Walking football is a perfect combination of fun, challenging, and high intensity exercise, with a focus on dual tasking and big powerful movements - all things us physios like to promote in managing this condition. Exercise is much easier to commit to if it’s fun and inclusive, and that’s where it’s sometimes tricky for us to refer on to classes or the gym, especially when people are new to these, or feel self-conscious. However, almost everyone has kicked a ball about in their youth, and that, coupled with being with other people with the same condition makes this less daunting to have a go at. The banter and team working that has developed over time is an added bonus!”

Talking on our new partnership: “With my involvement in this project, I’m hoping to help inspire other clubs to get involved in providing walking football opportunities for people with Parkinson’s as it’s such a rewarding community to be part of.

I’m hopeful that we can spread awareness of the huge benefits of walking football for Parkinson’s, thereby helping people achieve that fun, high intensity exercise that’s so beneficial in managing their condition long term.”

We at WFS are delighted Lois will be involved and look forward in working with her to grow the game for people with Parkinson’s here in Scotland.

lois rosenthal