By Desirée Gagné, MA, OTR/L

Living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) presents various challenges, but research highlights the powerful role of exercise in managing its symptoms and improving overall well-being. Physical activity has been shown to improve numerous symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease, spanning from balance and mobility to depression, constipation, and cognitive functions. Moreover, studies indicate that exercise might exert a shielding influence on the brain, slowing the deterioration of brain cells.
While medications can help alleviate certain aspects of Parkinson’s, incorporating regular exercise into your routine can offer a range of benefits that extend beyond mere symptom relief.

The Benefits of Exercise for Parkinson’s

Exercise has been shown to have profound effects on Parkinson’s symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowed movement), and postural instability. Engaging in physical activity can enhance mobility, flexibility, balance, and coordination, thereby improving daily functioning and reducing the risk of falls. Individuals who begin an exercise routine early on experience a slower decline in quality-of-life issues than those who start later.

Types of Exercise Recommended for Parkinson’s

Several types of exercise are particularly beneficial for individuals with PD; however, no one exercise is right for every person with PD. The choice of exercise depends on your unique symptoms and obstacles you may face.  

1. Aerobic Exercise: Activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, and dancing can improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and increase stamina.

2. Strength Training: Incorporating resistance exercises using weights, resistance bands, or body weight can help maintain muscle strength and prevent muscle stiffness. Focus on exercises that target major muscle groups, including the arms, legs, chest, and back.

3. Balance and Flexibility Exercises: Yoga, tai chi, and Pilates are excellent options for improving balance, flexibility, and posture. These activities emphasize slow, controlled movements and mindfulness, which can enhance body awareness and coordination.

4. Functional Training: Activities that mimic daily tasks, such as reaching, bending, and squatting, can improve functional capacity and independence in activities of daily living.

Practical Tips for Getting Started

If you’re considering integrating exercise into your Parkinson’s management plan, here are some practical tips to help you get started:

– Consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise program to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

– Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time.

– Find activities that you enjoy and are accessible to you. Whether it’s a group fitness class, dancing, a nature walk, or gardening, choose activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

– Listen to your body and modify exercises as needed to accommodate any physical limitations or discomfort.

– Stay consistent with your exercise routine, aiming for a mix of aerobic, strength, balance, and flexibility exercises throughout the week.

Data from the Parkinson’s Foundation Parkinson’s Outcomes Project, the largest-ever clinical study of Parkinson’s, suggest that people with PD do at least 2.5 hours of exercise every week for a better quality of life. Exercise is a powerful tool in the management of PD, offering a range of physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits. By incorporating regular physical activity into your routine and adopting a proactive approach to self-care, you can enhance your quality of life and maintain independence for years to come. Remember, every step you take toward prioritizing your health and well-being is a step in the right direction.

Rehability Prosthetics, Orthotics & Rehabilitation, in Spring Hill FL, offers a Parkinson’s Peer Support Group on the first Wednesday of every month from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM. This gathering provides a supportive environment for individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease to connect, share experiences, and offer each other support. Whether you’re living with Parkinson’s yourself or caring for someone who is, you’re welcome to join us.
For more information – https://rehabilitygroup.com/is-parkinsons-disease/

OTHER RESOURCES: 
1. https://www.parkinson.org/library/fact-sheets/exercise#:~:text=Physical%20activity%20has%20been%20shown,way%20of%20coping%20with%20PD.

DISCLAIMER: This article is intended to provide general health information and is not intended to provide individual-specific medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment