Exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have for living the best life possible with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Regular movement supports strength, flexibility, mood, and even brain function — and its benefits go well beyond the gym.
Whether you're newly diagnosed or years into your PD journey, there’s no “right” way to get moving. What matters most is finding activity that works for you, sticking with it in a way that feels motivating and then building to more impactful exercise as you are ready.
Starting and Maintaining an Exercise Routine
Exercise is one of the most powerful tools for living well with Parkinson’s. Rachel Dolhun, MD, DipABLM shares practical tips on how to get started and stay motivated.
Movement Tips to Boost Brain Health and Manage Symptoms
Regular movement is one of the most powerful tools for managing Parkinson’s symptoms and supporting long-term brain health. Whether it’s structured exercise — which has been shown to help slow Parkinson’s progression — or simply adding more activity to your day, what matters most is consistency, not perfection. With the right mix of cardio, strength, flexibility and balance training, even small steps can lead to lasting benefits.
- Aim for 150 minutes of moderate- to high-intensity cardio each week. Some great options to get your heart rate up include walking, cycling, swimming and dancing.
- Include strength, balance and flexibility exercises. These support posture, prevent falls and help with everyday movement and can even be combined to maximize the time you do spend exercising. For example, some activities, such as non-contact boxing and dancing, involve multiple types of exercise. So one class could count as both aerobic and balance exercise.
- Find ways to add movement throughout your day. Take short walks, stretch during TV breaks or stand up regularly if you sit for long periods.
- Focus on progress, not perfection. Small, consistent efforts — even just a few minutes at a time — can make a real difference. Researchers have found that increasing moderate to vigorous activity by just 10 minutes a day from any level could have significant benefit for those with Parkinson’s.
- Join a Parkinson’s-friendly exercise class. Group settings led by knowledgeable trainers can not only boost motivation and accountability, but also provide social connection — a critical piece in improving your quality of life with Parkinson’s.
- Find what works for you. Whether you're energized by intensity or prefer gentle movement, choose activities you enjoy and can stick with.
Learn more about exercise and Parkinson’s disease.
“I have a lot of issues with my shoulders and upper back. And these are worse when I wake up. But all of my symptoms are far less when I do aerobic exercise — when I get my heart rate up and keep it there.”
Lynn Hagerbrant
Become a Fundraiser
Team Fox members have raised over $185 million for Parkinson's research since 2006. You too can be part of this passionate community of change-makers bringing us closer to a cure.
Join the Study that's Changing Everything
Researchers are studying the link between sense of smell and brain health. People with and without Parkinson's can help by taking a scratch-and-sniff test. It’s free, mailed to your home and takes just 15 minutes to complete.