Active Hastings Neuro Exercise Sessions: Building Strength, Confidence and Community

Active Hastings is supporting people living with neurological conditions to stay active, improve their wellbeing and connect with others through its specialist neuro exercise sessions. Originally launched with funding from Parkinson's UK, the programme includes Weighted Neuro Gym sessions, Exercise for Parkinson’s, and Exercise for Neurological Conditions classes, designed to help people manage their condition through safe, supportive physical activity.

Many participants join through GP referrals thanks to Active Hastings’ partnership with the Hastings and St Leonards Primary Care Network, helping people access community-based support that can improve both their physical and mental health.

The sessions are tailored to meet different needs. Evening Weighted Neuro Gym sessions focus primarily on working-age adults living with neurological conditions, while the day-time Parkinson’s and Neurological Conditions sessions often support older adults. Both provide a welcoming, inclusive space where participants can exercise at their own pace, and carers are welcome to attend.

 

Improving Strength, Balance and Everyday Movement

Regular, targeted exercise can play a vital role in helping people manage neurological conditions. Through guided strength, coordination and balance exercises, participants work on movements that support everyday activities and independence.

Many attendees report improvements in grip strength, balance, fine motor skills and overall confidence in their movement. For some, the changes are noticeable in simple daily tasks that had previously become difficult.

One participant shared how the sessions have had a life-changing impact on their independence:

“I have been going to neurogym for 2 years, from when it started. It has improved my fine motor skills. I am now able to pick up a cup and enjoy a hot drink for the first time in 10 years. I can also carry my dinner into my living room. My hands are less shaky, and my friends and family have noticed.”

 

Another described how the exercises have helped with everyday activities at home:

“I can now carry a plate of hot food from my kitchen to my dining room. I can get out of bed easier than before, with less pain and am stronger in my balance and ability to judge distances and spatial awareness.”

 

Participants also develop a better understanding of how their bodies move and how to manage symptoms:

“It has helped me to understand why my body does certain things, and I have learnt how to lift myself off the floor with a better technique than before.”

 

Participants also learn exercises they can practise between sessions, helping them build routines that support their health over time.

 

Building Confidence to Be Active

For some people living with neurological conditions, exercise can feel intimidating, particularly if they worry about falling or making their symptoms worse. The supportive nature of the sessions helps remove those barriers.

Several participants say the classes have given them the confidence to try exercise for the first time, or to try things they never thought possible.

“I never had the confidence before as I was scared because of my medical condition. I think it’s amazing! It has been life-changing, improving my balance and coordination.”

 

Others highlight how consistent support, and trusted instructors make a difference:

“It has given me the confidence to try new things. I trust Sue and can see the mental and physical benefits.”

 

For some, this represents a complete shift in mindset around exercise:

“I thought exercise wasn’t for people like me. A GP even said to me years ago that I didn’t need to worry about exercising because it would be too difficult. But Sue has a totally different approach. She always finds a way.”

 

Participants often find that as their confidence grows, so does their willingness to stay active outside the sessions.

 

Supporting Mental Wellbeing

The sessions also have a strong impact on mental wellbeing. Living with a neurological condition can sometimes lead to isolation or anxiety, particularly if people feel unable to take part in activities they once enjoyed.

Exercise can help improve mood, reduce stress and even support better sleep. One participant noted the sessions help them rest more easily afterwards, something that had previously been a challenge due to insomnia.

Attendees frequently describe the sessions as something they genuinely look forward to:

“Neurogym is something I look forward to, and we all have a laugh.”

 

Another participant shared:

“Attending the classes gives me a real lift and makes me feel like I can handle things and keep on going.”

 

The supportive environment also helps participants feel encouraged and understood:

“This is a very inclusive class. Sue is very friendly, welcoming, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues her clients face. I leave feeling physically and mentally healthier and would really miss this class if I could not attend.”

 

Connecting with Others

Alongside the physical and mental health benefits, the social side of the sessions is hugely important. For many participants, the classes offer a chance to meet others with similar experiences and feel part of a supportive community.

One attendee explained how valuable that connection is:

“I work at home and feel isolated. I love coming out and being with the group on Tuesdays.”

 

Others highlight the value of shared understanding:

“It has been really interesting to meet people with neurological conditions and share experiences.”

 

This sense of community helps create a positive, motivating environment:

“Sue keeps the lessons varied and always explains why we are doing something and makes it fun.”

 

Sharing progress, challenges and encouragement helps people feel comfortable pushing themselves and celebrating improvements together.

 

Supporting Health Across the Community

Through these neuro exercise sessions, Active Hastings is helping people living with neurological conditions maintain independence, build confidence and improve their quality of life.

By combining specialist exercise, supportive instruction and strong partnerships with local healthcare providers, the programme continues to make a meaningful difference to residents across Hastings and St Leonards.

Jas Gray, Active Hastings GP Link Worker, highlights the importance of staying active when living with a neurological condition:

“For people living with neurological conditions, staying active can play a vital role in maintaining independence and managing symptoms. We know that appropriate, supported physical activity can help improve strength, balance and coordination, but just as importantly, it can boost confidence and mental wellbeing. These sessions provide a safe and supportive environment where people can build activity into their lives in a way that works for them.”

 

For many participants, the sessions are about far more than exercise. They offer a place to move safely, gain confidence, learn strategies to manage their condition and connect with others who truly understand their journey.

 

As one participant reflected:

“I feel it has benefitted me physically and mentally, giving me the confidence to prioritise my health and wellbeing, which I would never have done without this class.”

 

Visit our website for more information on all our neuro classes:

Weighted Neuro Gym sessions, Exercise for Parkinson’s and Exercise for Neurological Conditions classes.