Ping Pong for Good is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving lives through the transformative power of ping pong, also known as “table tennis.”
Our mission is to improve the quality of life for those living with brain diseases and to promote healthy aging. By offering a science-based approach, Ping Pong for Good aims to reduce symptoms and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Multiple Sclerosis. Our specialized program harnesses the remarkable benefits of ping pong to optimize brain and body health while fostering a strong sense of community.
We’re not just playing ping pong - we’re changing lives!
Ping Pong for Good in the News
From Peoria, Illinois, which served as one of the pilot locations for Ping Pong for Good. To learn more, visit: https://www.pingpongforgood.org/classes.
Featuring Ping Pong for Good, Co-Founder Trent Maclean, speaking about managing ON/OFF periods of medicine to maximize the precious ON times and the importance of exercise in managing Parkinson's.
The Joy of Ping Pong!
We invite you to watch this video showcasing the joy the PPG program brings to people to who are living with Parkinson’s
Where Your Funds Go When Donating to Ping Pong for Good:
By supporting Ping Pong for Good, you're not just backing a program but investing in transformative change. Your contribution will directly fund our current programming and expansion to new communities. It will provide for the training of facilitators and coaches, enabling them to utilize ping pong as a therapeutic tool to combat cognitive decline and improve symptoms associated with brain diseases.
Funding will support the following:
Educational Outreach: Educate the public on the health benefits of ping pong, particularly for active aging and improving the lives of those living with brain diseases.
Program Expansion: Facilitate expansion of the program in the U.S. and Canada.
Sponsorship Acquisition: Attract local and national sponsors for funding and support.
Operational Growth: Secure funds for operational needs to scale the program effectively.
Together we can bring the joy of ping pong to those who can benefit the most. We invite you to join us in this important cause. Let's not just play ping pong—let's change lives!
About Ping Pong for Good Sessions:
Our sessions kick begin with a full-body warm-up followed by a sequence of hand-eye coordination exercises on and off the ping pong table, skill-building drills, and rally-based gameplay. As participants master fundamental skills, we provide tailored progressions aimed at safely enhancing cognitive engagement, improving overall fitness, and advancing table tennis skills.
I think people should support this program because of the benefit it provides for people with Parkinson's - in terms of their flexibility and the cognitive aspect of it. It’s fun and playful, which brings joy to people. It keeps people active in the community and socializing.
-Cherry
After each session, I feel my symptoms are less troublesome; my hands respond better and my movements are more fluid. I also feel more relaxed and upbeat thanks to the exercise, of course, but I mostly credit it to the positive energy of the participants and staff. I feel supported and find comfort among people who, like me, have PD or understand the struggle.”
- Yvonne
“I feel lucky that I’m participating in the program! I feel it is a privilege to be able to be guided by real pros in their fields plus I love the game. I also like the opportunity to be in the Parkinsons community doing something proactive for our health.
When I am learning and practicing the new physical skills, I love the physical and mental challenge. It's as if I can actually feel my brain creating new neural pathways. When I playing I need to be fully physically and mentally present. I am in the moment!
- Farrel
“Tonight was so much fun, and I'm so glad there's a place for me and my dad to go and hang out together. I can't wait for the next time!”
- Kasey
The spirit was uplifting. The people were kind, everybody was welcoming and there was so much individual attention. It’s given us some hope and some joy and that’s been really important for us. It just fills my heart.
- Fran
The Health Benefits of Ping Pong include:
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May slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline
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Improves blood circulation to the heart and brain
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Increases agility, coordination, balance, flexibility & strength
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Helps elevate mood and reduce feelings of isolation and depression
Experts weigh in
Presented by Ryan Glatt MS CPT, a trainer and brain-health coach, Brain Health, Exercise & Ping Pong offers a comprehensive view of how exercise affects the brain, and how activities such as ping pong may affect brain health.
Populations Who Can Benefit From Ping Pong:
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Dementia & Alzheimer’s
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Active Aging
• Stroke
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• ADHD
• Autism
• Balance Problems
Why support?
The world is facing an epidemic of cognitive decline, with neurodegenerative diseases exponentially on the rise. Research demonstrates that exercise may be one of the most powerful tools to slow down and prevent decline. This initiative will:
Promote active aging
Support those living with brain diseases
Reduce the costs of aging
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