In this article, we examine why exercise benefits individuals with Parkinson’s disease and how it impacts the brain. We also take a look at some examples and advice for exercising with this condition.
Why People with Parkinson’s Should Exercise?
The Parkinson’s Foundation states that there is increasing evidence of both short-term and long-term benefits of physical exercise for people with Parkinson’s.
One study, known as the Parkinson’s Outcomes Project, conducted by the organization of the same name, found that individuals with this disorder who engaged in at least 2.5 hours of movement per week experienced a slower decline in mobility and quality of life compared to others.
One of the key advantages of exercise for people with Parkinson’s is better symptom management.
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This includes improvement in:
- Walking
- Balance
- Tremors
- Flexibility
- Grip strength
- Motor coordination
- Posture
- Rigidity
Impact of Physical Activity on the Brain
Staying active not only helps with the physical aspects of Parkinson’s but also the mental ones. It has been shown to alleviate symptoms of fatigue, mood, sleep issues, and mental health.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that controls the brain’s reward and pleasure centers, as well as regulates movement and emotional responses. In Parkinson’s disease, there is a deficiency of dopamine.
While it has not been proven that physical activity increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, research shows that it helps use it more efficiently.
Types of Exercise
The exercises a person with Parkinson’s should undertake depend on the extent of their symptoms. In all cases, training should primarily focus on three areas:
- Flexibility and stretching
- Aerobic, also known as cardio
- Resistance or muscle tone training
There are many different types of exercises that encompass all three of these areas. These exercises include:
- Tai chi
- Yoga
- Cycling
- Jumping
- Running
- Pilates
- Dancing
The type of training known as “random practice” has proven to be highly beneficial, especially for people with Parkinson’s. This is an aerobic exercise that challenges individuals to change speed, activities, or direction.
It is also essential for those with Parkinson’s to vary the activities they perform. This is because individuals with this condition may struggle with changing tasks and performing two activities simultaneously. Consequently, random practice and variation will help address these symptoms.
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Considerations
There is no specific exercise program that a person with Parkinson’s should follow. The most appropriate exercises vary from person to person based on their symptoms. Parkinson’s UK recommends that individuals with mild symptoms engage in high-intensity exercises, such as working out at the gym.
Those with moderate symptoms should pursue exercises tailored to their specific symptoms. Individuals with more complex symptoms should train with exercises that help them complete daily activities that pose the greatest challenges.
Recommended Types of Training Suitable for Parkinson’s Disease
It is worth noting that cycling, in particular, requires both balance and adequate reaction times. These two qualities are compromised in Parkinson’s disease. Therefore, using a traditional bicycle may be risky. Alternatively, considering the use of tricycles or tandems is an option.
The University of California also states that weight lifting is not the best choice for people with this condition, although it is essential to maintain muscle tone.
Muscle tone exercises that can replace weightlifting include:
- Rising up onto the toes
- Modified squats
- Repeatedly standing up and sitting down on a chair
- Wearing ankle and wrist weights at home or during a walk
- Push-ups or wall push-ups
Swimming is good for coordination but does not involve balance. Therefore, it may not be the best exercise for people with Parkinson’s.
The ideal time for a person with Parkinson’s to exercise is when their mobility is at its best, typically about an hour after taking medication. However, this can vary from person to person, so the key is to exercise when mobility is optimal.
Tips for Exercising with Parkinson’s
Be Cautious
Before someone with Parkinson’s starts a new workout program, they should first consult with their neurologist, physician, and physiotherapist to determine the best exercises for them.
Use a Pedometer
Also known as a step counter, this tool allows individuals to monitor how many steps are taken on an average day. This can serve as a starting point to assess what type of exercise might be best.
Consistency
The best way for people with Parkinson’s to see the benefits of exercise is to practice it consistently. Individuals with Parkinson’s who have followed workout programs for 6 months or more have shown significant improvements compared to those who trained for shorter periods.
More Intensity, More Benefits
People with Parkinson’s should exercise as often and as long as possible. The amount they can do varies based on their symptoms, but as a general rule, the more a person exercises, the greater the benefit.
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Integration and Variation
People with Parkinson’s can start incorporating physical activity by making small changes, such as:
- Walking instead of driving when possible
- Taking the stairs instead of the elevator
- Avoiding long periods of inactivity
Additionally, varying the exercises and where they are performed, indoors or outdoors, not only helps with the symptoms of the disease but also reduces boredom and increases motivation.
Recovery
Proper recovery after activity allows for a gradual decrease in heart rate and prevents muscles from becoming stiff. Good warm-up and stretching are also crucial for the activity.
Have Fun
Enjoying the workout makes it easier to stick with. Group activities, including fitness classes, often help in this regard.
Physical Therapy for Parkinson’s, When to See a Physiotherapist
When first diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it is also necessary to schedule an appointment with a physiotherapist (physical therapy for Parkinson’s) to develop a customized workout program together.
All individuals with Parkinson’s should have a workout program tailored to their needs. A physiotherapist will help mitigate risks, provide advice regarding their specific type of Parkinson’s, and instill greater confidence.
As the disease progresses, a person should have regular check-ups with their physiotherapist to maximize the benefits of workouts by making necessary adjustments.
Conclusion
There are so many benefits to engaging in physical activity, especially for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Those affected by this condition should consult with their doctor or an advisory group to create a specific program to help them start or maintain a workout routine.
It is also useful to find more information on numerous specific lessons for Parkinson’s disease offered throughout the country. There may be a nearby group that someone can turn to for advice and support.
