Exercise is a vital part of the daily routine for anyone living with Parkinson’s.
It doesn’t have to be repetitive or boring. It can be as fun and as imaginative as you allow it to be. The keys are consistency, force and complexity.
Firstly, let’s have a look at how your symptoms can be improved with specific exercises.
| If You Have Difficulty in These Areas | Focus on These Exercises |
| Strength | Weight training, body weight training, swimming, household lifting |
| Flexibility | Stretching, yoga, body balance, Tai Chi classes |
| Gross Motor Skills | Jumping, balancing, obstacle runs |
| Fine Motor Skills | Drawing, puzzles, writing, juggling |
| Stress and Anxiety | Meditation, yoga, hypnotherapy |
Every day you should be aiming to:
Learn something new
That could be reading various newspapers, listening to radio shows, listening to audio books, or joining a book club. Also investigate the various memory training puzzles that are available.
Challenge yourself
Volunteer, perhaps with a Parkinson’s NSW Support Group or community service organisation, or even in a knitting or sewing group.
Make sure you go out each day, even if you feel a little unsteady on your feet. By using a cane or walker, you will gain greater confidence.
Practice writing by making big sweeping movements
A pen grip may help with control and make it easier to grasp your pen lightly and decrease the force required to move it across the page.
Exercise your voice
Practice speaking slowly, loudly and clearly. Read aloud daily and don’t forget to sing!
Exercise your body
Choose the exercises you need to suit your needs and to maintain your health. See our chart above.
For more information about exercise and the benefits to you, contact the Parkinson’s NSW InfoLine team: 1800 644 189