Anyone for Table Tennis?

I’m Martin Heffernan from Cashel, Co. Tipperary and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in August 2022. I had thought and hoped for about 3 years previously that I had an Essential Tremor in my right hand. I was always fairly fit and enjoyed cycling and walking.

I read about the benefits of table tennis and from March, as part of staying fit I started playing table tennis up to three times weekly. The game improves hand-eye coordination, stimulates mental alertness and concentration which are all impacted by Parkinson’s. Table tennis requires one to move fast over short distances which help to improve both large and small muscle movements while it’s easy on the joints. It’s also a great way to help maintain leg, arm and core strength, which is important as Parkinson’s impacts the range and amplitude of movement.

It is also just a great way of burning calories while having fun and having social interaction which benefits mental health. A study by Fukuoka University School of Medicine, Japan found that people with Parkinson’s who participated in a Table Tennis exercise program once a week for six months showed improvement in their Parkinson’s symptoms.

Last month, I took part in Scotland’s second Parkinson’s International Open Table Tennis competition in Inverclyde National Sports Complex in Largs. Sixteen countries competed with approx. 90 competitors which was double the entrants versus 2023. There was 3 different classes depending on your stage of Parkinson’s disease and playing ability. Some countries had coaches with them. I was one of 22 entries in my Class 2 event and I finished second in my group. The winner of my group went on to win a silver medal.

It was a fantastic experience and the venue was first class with all facilities including accommodation and meals provided on site. I certainly enjoyed meeting new fellow Parky’s and the camaraderie of so many people with Parkinson’s doing their best to forget about the obvious thing that links them and replacing it with the fun of table tennis. So many people remarked that they forget about Parkinson’s when their playing. It amazed me that in so many countries people with Parkinson’s are playing table tennis for its benefits for years.

In some countries, table tennis clubs have specific ‘Bat and Chat’ Parkinson’s groups that meet weekly. Others like myself play with the local club. Some play in both groups. Believe me, choose some form of exercise several times a week to enjoy life as best as one can and slow down the progression of Parkinson’s.

The annual Parkinson’s World Championships take place in Metz, France in October and it’s likely once again I may be the sole Irish entrant. Wouldn’t it be great for next year’s events if I was joined by a few others in singles, doubles and mixed doubles! I would like to thank Eoin Kelly, Munster Table Tennis Secretary and coaches Ben Haughton and Gary Mahoney at Beech Hill and Leeside Table Tennis Club in Cork who have been amazing in terms of their coaching and support.

For anyone interested in finding out more, please email: mheffernan1990@gmail.com