Exercise
A healthy life starts with healthy life choices, and staying active is top priority in the fight against Parkinson's. Physically active people enjoy the benefit of a healthier brain as well as physical improvements like better posture, strength, balance and reduced motor and non-motor symptoms.
The First Step
To get started, meet with your primary care doctor or a physical therapist to go over any physical limitations or health concerns prior to starting any fitness related activities.
Personal Trainer
Personal trainers can be a great place to start when looking to begin a fitness program. Personal trainers are knowledgeable and can help assist in creating a fitness plan best suited for your needs.
Flexibility
Exercises such as yoga and stretching are beneficial as they help reduce muscle rigidity and help keep joints flexible. Stretching exercises should be performed for at least 10 minutes a day.
Strength & Balance
Strengthening muscles helps to maintain and improve walking, sitting, reaching, and turning abilities, and should be performed two to three days a week. Balance exercises are very important because they aid in walking and help prevent falls.
Aerobic Activity
A vigorous aerobic exercise regimen helps work the cardiovascular and neuromuscular systems. This helps override damage to the brain’s neurons, and you burn calories to boot! Consider walking, swimming or dancing 30 minutes a day.
Group Exercise
Rock Steady Boxing is a great sport to build camaraderie in your new lifestyle -- and not the only one! Yoga, aerobics, cycling, dancing and many other group exercises have been adapted or designed just for people with Parkinson’s.