CrossFit Becomes a Safe Space for Woman with Parkinson's
"This is my safe place, this is where I feel the happiest," says adaptive CrossFit athlete Jules King with a beaming smile on her face.
The 46-year-old from Pembrokeshire, diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's disease, has defied expectations, including those of her GP.
King first noticed symptoms at 19 and by 35 was reliant on a wheelchair.
A decade later, having earned a bronze medal at the Adaptive CrossFit Games, she hopes her journey encourages others to stay active.
Early Symptoms and Diagnosis
"At the start of my diagnosis I couldn't even carry a cup of coffee without spilling it, I couldn't carry my shopping in, couldn't get myself out of bed," King told Wales.
"My first symptom was my big toe curling up and I noticed I'd lost my natural rhythm, I wasn't able to dance and I was a dancer all my life.
"I started falling over not knowing why, loss of coordination, I couldn't put things in bags it would take me forever after scanning things through the till [at the supermarket].
"My symptoms slowly got worse over time, I ended up having to use the wheelchair to go out and do things with my children so I could still be involved with the family things."
Following a consultation with a private neurologist, King was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson's disease and prescribed medication to manage her symptoms.
Understanding Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's is an incurable degenerative disorder that impairs the brain's communication with muscles.
It often presents with tremors or muscle rigidity.
According to the NHS, Parkinson's results from the loss of nerve cells in the brain, reducing dopamine levels, a chemical essential for regulating movement.
Defying Expectations
"I went into my GPs for a routine check up after being diagnosed and I joked to him and said I was going to do a triathlon," said King.
"He replied, 'you can't do that,' and I went on to do three!"
Despite her success in triathlons, King sought a greater challenge.
"I got bored quite quickly of the triathlons and I needed more of a challenge.
"My daughter decided to enter me into this competition where they lift heavy weights and do silly things.
"She dragged me round this course in a pairs competition, but it was so much fun and then after that was my introduction to CrossFit.
"After that I went then into CrossFit Pembrokeshire in my local town [Haverfordwest] and I was welcomed with open arms and never looked back."
Achievements and Community
King earned a bronze medal at the Adaptive CrossFit Games held in Texas, USA, in 2024.
"I'm hoping it inspires loads of people because I just want everyone to keep moving and know the importance of keeping moving," said King.
"Life doesn't have to end when you get a diagnosis like young onset Parkinson's.
"CrossFit has changed my life, it's given me a second family and whole community."
