A man whose passion for rowing is helping him manage the physical and mental challenges of Parkinson’s disease is backing a campaign to help men thrive.
Durham County Council’s ‘he thrives’ campaign returns from Sunday 1 to Monday 30 November, celebrating the positive difference physical and social activities can make to men’s health and wellbeing.
The council has teamed up with local clubs and organisations to deliver activities across its leisure centres and in local communities throughout the month. From rowing, golf, table tennis, walking cricket and squash to indoor bowls, hockey and dragon boat racing – there are plenty of ways for men to get involved, whatever their age or fitness level.
Sean Bell, 56, is one of the faces of this year’s ‘he thrives’ campaign and is a firm believer in the benefits of movement for both physical and mental health.
Sean was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in December 2022. He had always led an active lifestyle, regularly working out in the gym and competing in cycling events.
After hearing about the ‘he thrives’ indoor rowing sessions delivered by Lambton Rowing Club last year, he decided to give them a go and now attends twice a week.
“During a session I feel energised and motivated,” he said. “There is something about the rhythm and repetition of rowing that demands concentration and commitment.”
Sean describes the people around him as friendly, motivational and understanding of his condition. Being part of a club, working towards his own goals and encouraging others has helped him push himself further than he might have done exercising alone.
“I am not the man with Parkinson’s who has turned up to exercise,” he said. “I am a member of a rowing club. Parkinson’s may be part of my life, but it doesn’t have to dictate what I do with it.”
The ‘he thrives’ campaign follows the success of ‘she thrives’ earlier this year and coincides with International Men’s Day on Thursday 19 November and Movember – a global charity that raises awareness of men’s health.
It is part of the council’s Move service, which creates opportunities for people to be active, build confidence and wellbeing, and connect with others.
Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “The ‘he thrives’ campaign aims to highlight the positive impact physical activity can have on physical, mental and social wellbeing.
“By sharing the stories of people like Sean and providing opportunities for men to get together and try out new activities, we can support more men to make movement a part of their daily lives.
“With such a varied range of activities on offer this year, there really is something for everyone and I would encourage men of all ages and fitness levels to get involved.”
Alongside the free taster sessions, other activities and offers taking place in council leisure centres in November include:
- Free seven-day passes, giving people the chance to try out leisure centre facilities before committing to membership.
- Dads and Kids sessions offering fathers and their children the chance to have fun and be active together. Activities will vary by centre and include circuit training, bowling, soft play, gym and swimming.
- Men’s Health MOTs delivered in partnership with the NHS Adult Wellbeing Service
- Suicide Awareness Training delivered by If U Care Share.
There will also be wellbeing walks in partnership with selected Family Hubs, providing a chance for busy dads and their children to get outdoors, get moving and spend some time together.
To view the full ‘he thrives’ programme, including activity details and locations, visit www.thriveleisure.co.uk
