For Parkinson's, exercise is medicine.
Research is finding that exercise can possibly slow down the progression of PD because it naturally produces and better utilizes dopamine!
Exercises found to be beneficial for Parkinson's to look for in your community:
Rock Steady Boxing (intensive, full-body workout specific for PD)
Yoga
Pilates
Music therapy (exercises the voice and can be applied to fine motor coordination, walking, cognition, and breath support)
Dance for Parkinson's
Tai Chi
Parkinson's Wellness Recovery (PWR!)
Cycling
Water aerobics
Alexander Technique
We recommend working with a Parkinson's-specialized physical therapist and/or talking to your neurologist before starting any exercise. They can help with a development of an appropriate home exercise program for your unique needs with Parkinson's.
Where to find Parkinson's specific exercise classes?
Rock Steady Boxing (intensive, full-body workout specific for PD)
Yoga
Pilates
Music therapy (exercises the voice and can be applied to fine motor coordination, walking, cognition, and breath support)
Dance for Parkinson's
Tai Chi
Parkinson's Wellness Recovery (PWR!)
Cycling
Water aerobics
Alexander Technique
We recommend working with a Parkinson's-specialized physical therapist and/or talking to your neurologist before starting any exercise. They can help with a development of an appropriate home exercise program for your unique needs with Parkinson's.
Where to find Parkinson's specific exercise classes?
- Pilates and dance for PD classes through the Durham-based (but virtual) Parkinson's Movement Initiative
- Parkinson Association of the Carolinas offers virtual yoga for PD classes and tries to maintain a list of Parkinson's exercise classes
- PWR!Moves classes at Duke
- PWR!Moves classes at UNC: Contact Julie McNamara at 984-974-2751, julie.mcnamara@unchealth.unc.edu
- Search for local Rock Steady Boxing classes
- Live-stream national Dance for PD classes
- Parkinson's Foundation offers "Fitness Fridays" videos through their PD Health @ Home program
