What Is the Best Exercise for Parkinson’s Disease?

Exercise plays a crucial role in managing Parkinson’s disease (PD), helping to maintain mobility, improve mood, and enhance overall quality of life. But what is the best exercise for Parkinson’s disease? While there’s no single solution that fits everyone, research and patient experience suggest that a mix of targeted physical activity tailored to the needs of those with PD offers the greatest benefit.

What Is the Best Exercise for Parkinson’s Disease?
The best exercise for Parkinson’s disease is one that addresses both motor and non-motor symptoms, supports balance and coordination, and can be sustained regularly. A combination of aerobic activity, resistance training, and flexibility exercises tends to deliver the best results. Below are some top-recommended exercises for people living with PD:
1. Aerobic Exercises
Cardiovascular workouts like walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing increase heart rate and improve endurance. These activities help reduce fatigue and improve brain health by encouraging dopamine production—critical in Parkinson’s.
2. Balance and Coordination Training
Tai Chi and yoga are gentle yet powerful exercises that enhance balance, flexibility, and posture. Both have been shown to reduce fall risk and improve stability—key concerns for those with PD.
3. Strength Training
Using light weights or resistance bands helps build muscle strength, which in turn supports better mobility and reduces stiffness. Even simple bodyweight exercises, like squats or wall push-ups, can be effective.
4. Stretching and Flexibility
Stretching improves range of motion and reduces muscle rigidity. Daily routines focusing on the neck, shoulders, hips, and legs can ease movement and decrease discomfort.
5. Functional and Task-Specific Exercises
Practicing real-life movements like standing from a chair, stepping sideways, or walking in different patterns can significantly help with everyday mobility.
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​The key is consistency. Engaging in 30 to 60 minutes of exercise most days of the week, under the guidance of a trained therapist or within a supportive community setting, makes a significant difference over time.

Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida: Your Partner in Movement
If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. For over twenty-five years, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) has been a pillar of support for individuals and families affected by PD and related neurological conditions.

PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups each week, many of which focus on movement and exercise specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s. These include yoga, balance classes, stretching sessions, and more—all provided free of charge. Becoming a member is easy, and there are no fees involved.  Visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org for more information.
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To get involved and take advantage of these resources:

• Click here to sign up for PASWFL’s free newsletter
• Click here to become a free member