Parkinson’s Disease – The Benefits of Exercise

Living with Parkinson's disease (PD) can be challenging, as it affects the nervous system and gradually impairs motor skills and movement. However, there is a powerful tool that can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's: exercise. Engaging in regular physical activity has been proven to provide a multitude of benefits, from managing symptoms to enhancing overall well-being.

At Back In Motion Brighton, our exercise approach is based on the PD Warrior Program. The PD Warrior Program has been developed using the best available evidence to provide neuroactive exercises to encourage neuroplasticity and neuroprotection. Exercise can benefit those who have been newly diagnosed and experiencing only mild symptoms as well as those who have had the diagnosis for years. The PD Warrior Program is focused on giving participants the knowledge to manage their symptoms and tools to achieve their goals.

Our program also provides a support network, educational channel, and a motivational coach to help ensure people achieve their goals. The program ideally works best for those with idiopathic Parkinson’s and the earlier the invention, the better the results will be.

This approach is not the same as working out in the gym or going for a walk. It is specific and intentional movements to drive the brain to re-wire itself and improve:

• Control and amplification of movements
• Reduction of freezing and shuffling during gait
• Management of the severity of flare ups
• Cognitive and voice projection dual tasking
• Provide community support in the form of online groups and in-person classes

Our Parkinson’s disease program consists of:

• An initial assessment and extended consultation
• Several follow up consultations to master exercises one-on-one with your physiotherapist and learn about the program
• 10 weeks of group exercise classes (twice weekly)
• Opportunity to continue with group classes after the 10 weeks
• A consultation at 3-months to review your home exercise program, allowing your physiotherapist to adjust and progress your program

If you or someone you know has a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, we’d love to help! For more information about our Parkinson's disease program, please contact our team on (08) 8296 1755 or email brighton@backinmotion.com.au.