April is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month in the United States and Canada. This is a good time to look at how exercise can ease symptoms and improve quality of life.
Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder with symptoms that include tremors, balance problems, and limb rigidity. More than 10 million people worldwide have it, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Most who get it are over 50.
The cause is unknown, and there is no cure. But exercise may help slow the disease’s progression while improving muscles, flexibility, and balance, supporting lung capacity, keeping people socially engaged, and boosting mood and confidence.
“Any kind of exercise you do consistently will help improve your Parkinson’s symptoms and overall health,” the Parkinson’s Foundation says.
Non-contact boxing classes have grown popular among Parkinson’s patients. “Non-contact boxing-inspired classes can reverse, reduce and even delay the symptoms,” says Rock Steady Boxing. The sport targets agility, balance, hand-eye coordination, and muscular endurance — the same qualities Parkinson’s tends to erode.
The Parkinson’s Foundation also recommends:
- Walking, cycling, and swimming
- Dancing, which combines movement with learning sequences to support cognition
- Golf
- Tai chi and yoga for balance
For people living with Parkinson’s, consistent movement can be a powerful tool toward enjoying life as much as possible. We are here to help.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.