Transformative Impact of Pickleball on Parkinson's Patients in Norfolk

In Norfolk, pickleball is significantly improving the lives of individuals with Parkinson's disease. Participants report enhanced mobility and confidence, with many abandoning their wheelchairs. This initiative, recognized by Parkinson's UK, not only promotes physical activity but also fosters social interaction. Gill Jeffrey, a participant, shares her inspiring journey of reclaiming her mobility through the sport. With the support of local healthcare professionals, the program aims to expand its reach, offering hope and vitality to more individuals facing similar challenges. Read on to learn more about this transformative initiative.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 13, 2026, 20:00 IST

Revitalizing Lives Through Pickleball

In Norfolk, pickleball has emerged as a beacon of hope for individuals living with Parkinson's disease, enhancing their mobility, confidence, and overall quality of life. One participant expressed her determination to keep her wheelchair "in the shed" after experiencing the sport's positive effects. The free sessions titled "Pickleball for Parkinson's" have been hosted at Hingham Sports Centre for the past ten weeks, drawing in 16 participants. This initiative, endorsed by Parkinson's UK, aims to keep those with this progressive neurological disorder active while fostering social connections and mental engagement.

Gill Jeffrey, who received her Parkinson's diagnosis eight years ago, shared how transformative the experience has been for her. "It's helped tremendously. Now I'm not using a chair at all. I'm not using my sticks... I'm walking further, it's just brilliant and it helps me every day," she stated in an interview. Previously, Jeffrey had to stop playing bowls due to her condition, which hindered her mobility. After her diagnosis, she resolved to embrace life fully and not succumb to her limitations. "It's helped my legs tremendously — that's really important to me," she added. "The wheelchair is in the shed. It's staying there. I am never using it to go on holiday again or anywhere. I don't use the sticks."

According to Parkinson's UK, approximately 166,000 individuals in the UK are affected by this condition, which presents over 40 symptoms, including tremors and rigidity. While exercise cannot reverse Parkinson's progression, the charity emphasizes its crucial role in managing the disease. Dr. Devendra Mahatme, a recently retired GP from Watton, noted the positive changes observed in participants. "What we are seeing so far is people seem to be improving," he remarked. "We don't know which part is benefitting them — whether it is the exercise, the wellbeing, socially and mixing or having a purpose to go to. Irrespective of that, what we are seeing is benefit and really we just want to keep going."

Jonathan Burney, diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2016, described his diagnosis as a "shock". After six weeks of playing pickleball, he shared how the sport has aided him during challenging times. "I used to play bat and ball on the beach for hours with my children on summer holidays. The great thing about pickleball is it's not that difficult," he explained. "You can get to a stage of competence after you've only played two or three games... it's a lot of fun as well. I would say it's a great game for people struggling with illness like Parkinson's."

The program was initiated by Helen Grover, inspired by reports from the United States where individuals with Parkinson's experienced increased energy, mobility, balance, and overall well-being through pickleball. "I hope it inspires other people. I believe we are the only people offering these sessions specifically for people with Parkinson's. I'd love for that to be expanded more widely across East Anglia," she expressed.