Walking is good, cycling is better, jogging and groups sports even better if they can manage it, but the key is that they need to be moving. The more active they are, the more active they will be able to be as their disease progresses. Researchers agree that exercise equals medicine for People with Parkinson’s Disease but, more importantly, strenuous exercise provides better results. Not to mention the social aspects of working out with other people.

My husband has been working out since shortly after his diagnosis. He used to drive himself to a local gym twice a week and then learned about Rock Steady Boxing. He has been boxing for about 5 years and is now participating in an on-line class that includes RSB four days a week. In addition, he does a stretching/range of motion class on the weekends and a voice/movement class mid-week. He has a very busy exercise schedule that covers aerobic or high intensity and cognitive challenges. I feel he has a good mix and yet still encourage him to walk around the block with me at least twice a week.

One thing that helps motivate him is that we work out together. I need to be available when he is exercising in case something happens and the workouts are good for me too. It is a positive activity for us as we tend to challenge each other. I can modify the moves he is doing to ensure I get the most from the time, but he seems to enjoy having me there and it is good for me to see what he is doing. The sit-to-stands, POW’R moves and RSB are helping me be more fit and making me a better CarePartner. After all, why should he get to have all the fun?

For more information on the most effective exercise plans see How to exercise in order to get results from Parkinson’s Exercise Programs (davisphinneyfoundation.org)