Many people with Parkinson’s report that exercise helps them manage their disease. As part of this ongoing series, individuals talk about their routines — and how staying active is improving their physical and emotional outlook.

GARY SCHMITZ
GRAPEVINE, TEXAS

What’s Your Exercise Regimen? Three times a week, I go to Punching out Parkinson’s, a non-contact boxing training program run by world champ Paulie Ayala. To help keep this free to all people with PD, we’ve started fundraising. I also run occasionally, and kayak.

How Does Exercise Help You? When I first started boxing, I was at 13 pills a day. I was able to maintain most of last year at four pills daily. But Parkinson’s doesn’t stop, so I recently increased back up to eight pills — but still less than 13. I’m regaining my coordination, flexibility and strength. You learn to never give up, even when you’re knocked down. I have my confidence back — and recently ran my first 5K.

Are You New to Exercise? No, although I am new to boxing, which I’d imagine is easier to start before 50! I’m in the best shape since high school.

What Else Helps? I’ve volunteered for several clinical studies. It doesn’t require much of me, and I don’t see why you wouldn’t want to help advance research. With Team Fox I can help unite the local PD community.

Any Words of Wisdom? Find something active you like to do. In an exercise group, you’ll push yourself harder than training alone, and your mood will be better. Every day you sit there, Parkinson’s wins.