SUPPORT US
SUPPORT US

Meet The Team

Our sessions are based on the Rock Steady Boxing curriculum, which was specifically developed for those with Parkinson’s.

What to expect

Your coaches are experienced neuro-rehabilitation practitioners, as well as certified Rock Steady Boxing or Taekwondo coaches.

Sessions are also open to family members and carers, to share experiences, socialise and make new friends over a cup of tea or coffee!

Zoltan

Head Coach and CIC Director, Parkinson’s Ninja

Hi, my name is Zoltan, and I’m one of the founders of Parkinson’s Ninja CIC. I’m originally from Hungary, where I earned a degree in Conductive Education – a form of neurorehabilitation that helps reorganise neural pathways damaged by conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease.

When I first heard about the Rock Steady Boxing programme—a method on which Parkinson’s Ninja is based—I was excited by its potential to use tailored exercise to target the many symptoms of Parkinson’s. After completing the Rock Steady Boxing training in the USA, I launched the Wirral branch in November 2018.

In the early days, we had just a handful of participants, but I always dreamed of growing the group so we could support more people living with Parkinson’s. We developed gradually, and after returning post-lockdown, we transformed our sessions—building on the Rock Steady foundation and introducing Taekwondo, mixed martial arts, and other fun movement-based activities to keep the programme varied, challenging, and enjoyable.

My wife and I moved from Hungary to the UK in 2000, starting out in Birmingham. Over the years I’ve also lived in Canada, South Africa, the USA, and New Zealand, before settling on the Wirral in 2013 with our two children. I currently work as a therapist for a charity called Stick ’n’ Step, where I use my degree in Conductive Education to support children and young people with cerebral palsy.

Dave

Assistant Coach, Parkinson’s Ninja

Dave receiving his 2nd Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo from Master Richard Saunders (7th Dan, Chief Instructor).

Hi, my name is Dave, and I’m a 2nd Dan Black Belt instructor in Taekwondo.

I first came across Parkinson’s Ninja after one of my own Saturday training sessions, when I noticed a group of people punching, stretching, and moving through different exercises under the watchful eye of their coach.

After a few weeks of observing, I jumped at the chance to get involved and learn more about these incredible warriors who were fighting back against the effects of Parkinson’s—a condition I knew little about at the time.

One of the best things about being part of the group is the laughter, encouragement, and sense of community we share. It’s a place where everyone supports one another, and I always leave each session with a smile and a wave.

Tina

Assistant Coach and CIC Director, Parkinson’s Ninja

Hi, my name is Tina, and I’m a 3rd Dan Black Belt instructor in Taekwondo. I’ve been part of Parkinson’s Ninja since the very beginning and now serve as both an Assistant Coach and CIC Director.

My role varies from holding pads and partnering with some of our less mobile participants to sharing plenty of laughs with our fighters. I also teach a few basic Taekwondo and boxing moves, which help improve coordination, balance, breathing, and spatial awareness.

I always look forward to our sessions — they’re full of energy, teamwork, and great fun!

 

John H Stracey, MBE

Former Undisputed World Welterweight Champion & Volunteer Coach, Parkinson’s Ninja

A former undefeated British and European Welterweight Champion and Undisputed World Welterweight Champion, John H. Stracey, MBE, is a two-time Hall of Famer, the oldest living English World Champion, and the only Brit to win a world title in Mexico.
Over his remarkable career, John fought 51 professional bouts, achieving 45 wins (37 by knockout), with just 5 losses and 1 draw.

John has lived on the Wirral for the past 36 years, and we are absolutely delighted to have him as part of our team of volunteers — helping and inspiring participants at our Thursday Parkinson’s Ninja classes.

Eleanor

CIC Director, Parkinson’s Ninja

Hi, I’m Eleanor, one of the directors of Parkinson’s Ninja CIC.
In terms of sporting achievement, I can’t claim any Taekwondo belts of any colour — though I was once the proud recipient of a blue ribbon for coming third in the three-legged race back in reception! More recently, I managed to complete a Couch to 5K during lockdown, spurred on by my ever-enthusiastic “online coach,” Sarah Millican.

I first met Zoltan in October 2019 after spending countless hours searching for something — anything — that might help my husband, Dave, slow the relentless progression of Parkinson’s. At that time, Zoltan was running classes under the Rock Steady Boxing franchise. Despite Dave’s initial hesitation, I signed him up — and those classes have since become a hugely important part of our lives.

We both love to travel, and after retiring later this year, we plan to spend as much time as possible exploring the world while we’re still fit and active.

 

Suzi

Volunteer, Parkinson’s Ninja

Hi, my name is Suzi, and I’m a 2nd Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo.
I’ve been volunteering at the Wallasey Parkinson’s Ninja sessions since 2022.

After a family member was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, I wanted to learn more about how exercise and movement can help manage the condition.

I look forward to our classes every week — the energy, positivity, and sense of community are fantastic — and I always leave each session feeling happier and healthier too.

Lesley

Volunteer, Parkinson’s Ninja

Hi, my name is Lesley.

I recently retired from a career in education in West Cheshire, and now enjoy spending time with my two granddaughters, crocheting, paddleboarding, and travelling in our caravan.

When a member of my family started attending Parkinson’s Ninja, I recommended it to some of our friends. I agreed to go along to keep one of them company at her first session — and I loved it! The exercises, the fun games, and the friendly, supportive atmosphere completely won me over.

I’m now delighted to volunteer every Thursday morning, and I truly enjoy being part of the Parkinson’s Ninja family.

Paul

Volunteer, Parkinson’s Ninja

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in June 2023, having probably lived with symptoms for several years.

Discovering Parkinson’s Ninja just a few months later, in September 2023, has been one of the best things to happen to me since my diagnosis. The sessions have made a transformational difference to my confidence and physical capability.

Karen H.
“A fantastic opportunity for people with Parkinson’s to exercise, challenge themselves, and have fun! Each week is different, with new exercises and games that keep things fresh and motivating. Zoltan and the coaching team are brilliant — always supportive and encouraging — helping you get the very best out of every session. It’s really helped to build my strength and mobility, and I always leave feeling invigorated and ready for the day!”
Michael G.
“A wonderful group of people who support and encourage you to push yourself — always within your own limits.”
Ann F.
“This exercise class, designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s, is excellent. It’s truly inclusive of all abilities and also welcomes carers. A huge thank you to all the enthusiastic coaches for their time, energy, and support.”
Bart E.
“Excellent Parkinson’s-focused exercises and great company!”
Trish I.
“An excellent exercise programme specially designed for people with Parkinson’s. It helps with balance, coordination, and so much more. The instructors are brilliant and make every session enjoyable, and everyone is so friendly.”
Jim C.
“Fantastic exercise for people with Parkinson’s. The coaches give their time and support to the group, helping us stay strong and keep fighting this disease.”
Deb D
“Brilliant sessions every Tuesday and Thursday! A great workout for strength, balance, and flexibility, led by someone who truly understands what people with Parkinson’s need — with fantastic support from the volunteer team.”
Deborah W.
“These sessions have been so beneficial for my partner. They leave him energised, lift his mood, improve his coordination, and he really enjoys working alongside Zoltan and the team.”