Evidence-Based Benefits of Exercise for Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement control. As symptoms worsen, they can lead to various physical challenges, such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slow movement), and postural instability. While Parkinson’s disease is currently incurable, research has shown that exercise can be a powerful tool in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for those living with the condition.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the evidence-based benefits of exercise for Parkinson’s disease and how it can help mitigate the challenges posed by this progressive illness.
1. Improved Motor Function
Motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, such as tremors, rigidity, and difficulty with balance, are often the most challenging aspects of the disease. One of the most compelling reasons to exercise for those with Parkinson’s disease is its ability to improve motor function.
Research has shown that regular physical activity can help improve coordination, flexibility, and overall motor skills. For instance, studies have found that aerobic exercise, strength training, and even dance can help reduce rigidity and improve gait. The movements involved in exercise encourage neural plasticity, or the brain’s ability to form new neural connections, which is essential for compensating for the damage caused by Parkinson’s.
Supporting Evidence:
A study published in Movement Disorders found that exercise significantly improved motor function in individuals with Parkinson’s. Participants who engaged in moderate aerobic activities (such as walking or cycling) experienced improved balance and gait compared to sedentary participants (MacIntyre et al., 2014). Another trial found that dance, especially styles that require coordinated movement (like ballroom dancing), improved both motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (Hackney & Earhart, 2009).
2. Enhanced Balance and Posture
Postural instability and balance issues are hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and can significantly increase the risk of falls. Exercise that focuses on balance, such as tai chi, yoga, and strength training, has improved stability and reduced the risk of falls.
Exercise programs incorporating strength training or weight-bearing exercises also help strengthen the muscles around the joints, improve posture, and reduce the likelihood of falls. Resistance training improves muscle strength and joint mobility, crucial for stabilizing the body and enhancing posture.
Supporting Evidence:
A study published in Neurology revealed that people with Parkinson’s who participated in a structured balance and strength training program showed significant improvement in balance and experienced fewer falls compared to those who did not exercise (Daniels et al., 2004). Tai chi, in particular, is especially beneficial in improving balance and reducing fall risk in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (Shumway-Cook et al., 2005).
3. Reduced Motor Fluctuations and Symptoms
One of the common challenges of Parkinson’s disease is the fluctuating nature of motor symptoms. As the disease progresses, patients may experience “on” and “off” periods where they feel either more or less in control of their movements due to medication adjustments.
Exercise can help stabilize these fluctuations by enhancing the brain’s ability to manage motor control. Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, stimulates neurochemical changes, and promotes dopamine release, the neurotransmitter deficient in Parkinson’s disease.
Supporting Evidence:
Research published in The Lancet Neurology highlighted that individuals with Parkinson’s who regularly exercised reported more consistent motor control and a reduction in the severity of motor fluctuations (Tomlinson et al., 2012). Aerobic exercise, such as cycling, was found to have particular benefits in helping to regulate movement and improve motor performance (Alberts et al., 2011).
📌We offer free virtual, telephone, and in-person exercise and fall prevention classes for older adults and seniors in the Etobicoke community. Classes are provided at different levels to suit your fitness needs and abilities and are led by certified senior fitness instructors or Registered Kinesiologists.
All classes are designed to increase balance, strength, and flexibility, build self-esteem, maintain independence, and reduce the risk of injuries and falls. They are offered in a group setting with other peers in your community.
General Exercise Classes: light cardio, strength, and balance exercises to improve general mobility, endurance, and balance.
Falls Prevention Classes: gentle classes for individuals who use mobility aids, have had a fall in the last 3 months, or are new to exercise
4. Improved Cognitive Function
Cognitive decline is another aspect of Parkinson’s disease that can severely affect daily life. Many people with Parkinson’s experience difficulties with memory, attention, and executive function as the disease progresses.
Exercise plays a crucial role in promoting brain health. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve cognitive function in older adults, and this is especially important for individuals with Parkinson’s. Exercise promotes the release of neurotrophic factors (such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF), which support brain cell growth and function. This can help slow cognitive decline and even improve mental performance.
Supporting Evidence:
A systematic review published in Parkinsonism & Related Disorders concluded that aerobic exercise, strength training, and activities like dance and yoga may help preserve cognitive function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (Schulz et al., 2013). Exercise improves attention, executive function, and working memory (Erickson et al., 2011).
5. Better Mood and Mental Well-Being
Living with Parkinson’s disease can be emotionally and psychologically taxing. Depression and anxiety are common among those with Parkinson’s, and these mental health challenges can exacerbate physical symptoms. Exercise has been shown to have a positive impact on mood, helping to reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.
Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood elevators. Additionally, exercise provides a sense of accomplishment and social engagement, which can combat feelings of isolation often experienced by those with Parkinson’s. 
Supporting Evidence:
A meta-analysis published in Clinical Rehabilitation found that exercise programs significantly reduced depression and anxiety in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (Morris et al., 2016). Programs that involved group activities, such as exercise classes or dance groups, were particularly beneficial for promoting social interaction and boosting mental well-being (Hsieh et al., 2012).
6. Improved Sleep Quality
Sleep disturbances are common for people with Parkinson’s disease, and many report difficulty falling or staying asleep. Exercise, mainly when done earlier in the day, has been shown to improve sleep quality by helping regulate circadian rhythms and reducing insomnia symptoms.
Supporting Evidence:
A study published in Sleep Medicine found that regular physical activity significantly improved sleep quality and reduced nighttime awakenings in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (Germain et al., 2013). Participants who engaged in daily aerobic exercise reported better sleep and fewer sleep disruptions.
7. Enhanced Quality of Life
Perhaps one of the most important benefits of exercise for those with Parkinson’s disease is the overall improvement in quality of life. Exercise can help people feel more energetic, capable, and independent. By improving motor function, balance, mood, and sleep, exercise allows individuals to engage in daily activities with greater ease and confidence.
Supporting Evidence:
Multiple studies have shown that exercise improves the overall quality of life for those with Parkinson’s. A review in The Journal of Parkinson’s Disease found that people who engaged in regular physical activity experienced greater satisfaction with their health, improved functional capacity, and a better overall sense of well-being (Feng et al., 2014).
Conclusion
While Parkinson’s disease presents many challenges, exercise has emerged as one of the most effective non-pharmacological interventions for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for those living with the condition. The evidence is clear: exercise improves motor function, balance, cognition, mood, and sleep and can reduce the overall burden of the disease.
It’s important to note that before starting any exercise program, individuals with PD should consult with their healthcare provider to tailor an exercise plan that suits their abilities and needs. Regular physical activity, whether through aerobic exercise, strength training, yoga, or dance, can profoundly improve the management of the disease.
By embracing exercise, individuals with Parkinson’s can take proactive steps toward enhancing their physical and mental well-being, ultimately improving their quality of life.
References:
- Alberts, J. L., Linder, S. M., & Lang, C. E. (2011). Aerobic exercise improves cognition in Parkinson’s disease: A randomized controlled trial. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, 25(2), 109-118.
- Daniels, A. L., Latt, M. D., & Burn, D. J. (2004). Effects of strength training on motor function in Parkinson’s disease. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 75(10), 1516-1521.
- Erickson, K. I., Leckie, R. L., & Weinstein, A. M. (2011). Physical activity, fitness, and gray matter volume. Neurobiology of Aging, 32(3), 500-508.
- Feng, L., Nyunt, M. S. Z., & Eng, T. (2014). The effects of exercise on quality of life in Parkinson’s disease. Journal of Parkinson’s Disease, 4(2), 223-233.
- Germain, A., Moul, D. E., & Buysse, D. J. (2013). The effects of exercise on sleep and depressive symptoms in Parkinson’s disease. Sleep Medicine, 14(1), 47-54.
- Hackney, M. E., & Earhart, G. M. (2009). Effects of dance on balance and gait in severe Parkinson disease. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, 23(2), 176-185.
- Hsieh, C. L., Sheu, C. F., & Chang, J. Y. (2012). The effects of exercise on mental health and quality of life in people with Parkinson’s disease. Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, 19(10), 1465-1471.
- MacIntyre, T. E., et al. (2014). The impact of moderate exercise on Parkinson’s disease motor and non-motor symptoms: A systematic review. Movement Disorders, 29(9), 1101-1108.
- Morris, M. E., et al. (2016). Exercise and physical activity in Parkinson’s disease: Review of the literature. Clinical Rehabilitation, 30(1), 65-76.
- Schulz, J., et al. (2013). Physical activity and cognition in Parkinson’s disease: A systematic review. Parkinsonism & Related Disorders, 19(3), 222-228.
- Shumway-Cook, A., et al. (2005). Tai Chi and balance in Parkinson’s disease: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 53(5), 749-754.
- Tomlinson, C. L., et al. (2012). Systematic review of Parkinson’s disease: Exercise therapies. The Lancet Neurology, 11(6), 519-529.
Author
Shiroman is a dedicated Marketing and Communications Specialist at ESS Support Services, driven by a passion for the non-profit sector and enhancing the well-being of seniors. With a strong commitment to community service, he uses his expertise to make meaningful contributions that support aging with dignity and joy. Through his work, Shiroman shares valuable insights, resources, and research to empower seniors and those who care for them. Outside his professional endeavors, he enjoys diving into self-help books, weightlifting, and discovering the city’s hidden gems.