1. Set an exercise schedule
Block off a regular time for yourself to exercise. This helps keep you accountable for your own health. The goal is to incorporate exercise into your daily routine as soon as possible so that you’re always one step ahead of the progression of your symptoms.
“A study of over 2,000 people living with Parkinson’s showed that those who were exercising for 150 minutes or more per week had better mobility, physical function and cognitive performance compared to those who were not exercising. The people who were exercising regularly also experienced less disease progression over the course of a year. The evidence is undeniable – exercise helps!”
– Gammon M. Earhart, PT, PhD, Davis Phinney Foundation
2. Learn about exercises that specifically benefit Parkinson’s
Get to know which exercises particularly help in minimizing Parkinson’s symptoms. I recommend exercises that focus on intensity, grand movements and rotation of the spine. This helps you to keep good posture and reduces pressure on your lower back and shoulders, which helps prevent injuries or falls.
3. Join an exercise program
Find an evidence-based exercise program that’s tailored to managing Parkinson’s. Boxing 4 Health is one example that is supported by neurologists and physiotherapists. We also have programs specifically for people newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
Besides helping you to come up with a regular exercise routine, exercise programs have the added benefit of social interaction, whether it’s with your trainer or your exercise classmates. Having a community of fighters beside you will have a big impact on your motivation to exercise and your mental health.
The video below shows a variety of activities you can try by joining an exercise program and Joey one of our Boxing 4 Health fighters motivates you to keep you going.
If you need help getting started reach out. The sooner you implement a PD specific exercise program into your schedule the better. Don't wait for your symptoms to get worse, be pro active and get yourself started today!
You got this!
Christine