Let’s Get Moving: The Impact of Exercise in Parkinson’s Disease

We’ve all heard that exercise is good for our health. But for people living with Parkinson’s disease, staying active is more than just a recommendation—it’s a key part of managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life. You might wonder: what kind of exercise is best? How often should I do it? Here’s what the latest research says about exercise for Parkinson’s and how you can get started safely.

Exercise and the brain

The most studied type of exercise for Parkinson’s is aerobic exercise—activities like walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing that get your heart rate up. Research has shown that doing aerobic exercise three times a week, for about 30–40 minutes each time, can improve motor symptoms like stiffness and slowness. Aerobic exercise can also improve mood, especially depression, which is common in Parkinson’s.

A recent study found that aerobic exercise helps keep the brain healthier by promoting brain plasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt and make new connections. People who exercised had less brain volume loss and better cognitive function compared to those who didn’t. This is important because Parkinson’s can affect both movement and thinking skills.

In addition to aerobic exercise, balance and gait training can help prevent falls, a major concern for people with Parkinson’s. Practices like Tai chi, yoga, and Qigong are especially helpful for improving balance and coordination. These types of exercises are known to improve quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s.

Recommended Exercises

The Parkinson’s Foundation and the American College of Sports Medicine have guidelines for safe and effective exercise routines. Here are some recommendations:

• Aerobic exercise
  • Type: Activities like brisk walking, running, cycling, or swimming.
  • How Often: 3 days per week for at least 30 minutes, with a goal of 150 minutes per week.
  • Intensity: Moderate to vigorous (enough to get your heart rate up).
  • Safety Tip: If you have low blood pressure, balance issues, or freezing gait, take precautions and exercise with supervision if needed.
• Strength training
  • Type: Exercises that target major muscle groups, like using resistance bands, weights, or your own body weight (e.g., squats, lunges).
  • How Often: 2–3 times per week for about 30 minutes.
  • Safety Tip: If you have stiffness or postural issues, take care with your range of motion.
• Balance, Agility, and Multitasking
  • Type: Activities like multi-directional stepping, weight shifting, large movements, or multitasking exercises (e.g., dance, boxing, yoga, Tai chi).
  • How Often: 2–3 times per week, or integrate it into daily activities.
  • Safety Tip: If you have balance or cognitive issues, make sure to hold onto something sturdy or exercise with support.

• Stretching
  • Type: Gentle stretches with deep breathing, or dynamic stretches before other exercises.
  • How Often: 2–3 times per week, or daily for best results.‍
  • Safety Tip: Adapt your stretching routine if you have a stooped posture or pain.

Important Tips for Exercising Safely

• Safety First: Always exercise during your medication “on” periods when you’re feeling your best. Consult with your physician if you're unsure.
• Have Support: If you’re not sure whether it’s safe to exercise alone, have someone with you.
• Consult a Specialist: A physical therapist with experience in Parkinson’s can help you develop a routine that works for you.‍
• Progress Over Time: Modify and improve your exercises as you get stronger and more confident.

The Future of Exercise in Parkinson’s Care

More research is being done to tailor exercise plans to different stages of Parkinson’s. While we’re still learning which exercises are most effective at each stage, we know one thing for sure: staying active can delay the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms. For now, exercise remains one of the most powerful tools you have to manage your condition.

So, let’s get moving and make exercise a part of your daily routine! It’s as important as any medication in your treatment plan. If you have any questions on what's best for you and your journey, don't hesitate to make an appointment today and get started with one of our expert neurologists. At Synapticure, we are here for you every step of the way, tailoring care plans to your unique needs and goals.

About the Author
Dr. Ferluga, a neurology specialist, developed and directed movement disorder programs at prestigious medical centers before pivoting to teleneurology with Synapticure, focusing on holistic care for Parkinson’s and Huntington’s patients.

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