Canada's only Parkinson's Walking Soccer Program
United by Parkinson's. Connected through Walking Soccer.
Walking Together. Living Better.
Parkinson's United is Canada's first national Walking Soccer program created specifically for people living with Parkinson's.
Created by Toronto Walking Soccer Club in partnership with Passion for Parkinson's, Parkinson's United is more than a soccer program—it is a national movement dedicated to helping people living with Parkinson's remain active, connected and optimistic about the future.
Our vision is simple:
Every Canadian living with Parkinson's should have the opportunity to play Walking Soccer in their own community.
Whether you've played soccer your whole life or have never kicked a ball before, Parkinson's United welcomes you.
What is Parkinson's Walking Soccer?
Walking Soccer is a slower-paced version of the world's most popular sport, designed to be safe, enjoyable and accessible. The rules are simple:
- Players must always walk.
- The game is played on a smaller field.
- Teams are smaller.
- Physical contact is minimal.
- The emphasis is on enjoyment, movement and teamwork.
Sessions are welcoming, inclusive and designed to accommodate people at different stages of Parkinson's. Everyone participates at their own pace, supported by trained coaches and volunteers who understand the unique challenges of living with the condition.
You don't need any soccer experience, you simply need the willingness to take that first step.
How Does Walking Soccer Help People Living with Parkinson's?
Exercise is widely recognised as one of the most effective non-drug therapies for helping people live well with Parkinson's.
Walking Soccer combines physical activity with mental stimulation and social connection, making it uniquely suited to supporting people living with the condition.
While Walking Soccer is not a cure for Parkinson's, many participants describe it as one of the highlights of their week and an important part of living well with the condition.
Participants often experience improvements in:
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Physical Benefits
- Better balance
- Improved walking and mobility
- Increased strength
- Greater flexibility
- Improved coordination
- Enhanced cardiovascular fitness
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Cognitive Benefits
- Faster decision making
- Improved concentration
- Better spatial awareness
- Increased confidence
- Improved mood
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Social Benefits
- New friendships
- Reduced isolation
- Greater sense of belonging
- Shared experiences with others who understand Parkinson's
- A supportive community that extends beyond the soccer field
One Country. One Community.
Today, Parkinson's United begins in Ontario.
Tomorrow, we hope it will be in communities from coast to coast.
Our vision is to establish Parkinson's United Walking Soccer programmes throughout Canada by partnering with local Walking Soccer clubs, municipalities, recreation centres, healthcare providers and community organisations.
Whether you live in Vancouver, Regina, Winnipeg, Toronto, Halifax or anywhere in between, our goal is the same:
Every Canadian living with Parkinson's deserves the opportunity to play.
How Do I Get Involved?
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I'm living with Parkinson's
Register your interest and we'll let you know the nearest program to you.
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I'm a family member or care partner
Join us, support a loved one, volunteer or simply become part of our community.
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I'm a Walking Soccer club
Partner with Parkinson's United and help bring the programme to your community.
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I'm a healthcare professional
We welcome partnerships with neurologists, physiotherapists, family physicians, Parkinson's specialists and exercise professionals who would like to refer patients.
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I'd like to volunteer
We're looking for coaches, referees and volunteers who want to help change lives through Walking Soccer.
Join Toronto Walking Soccer Club
Be the first to know about the latest events, leagues and all goings on around walking soccer