You've heard "exercise is medicine" a hundred times. But does it really make a difference you can feel in daily life? One of the largest real-world studies of Parkinson's says yes, and the finding about when to start may surprise you.
Does regular exercise improve quality of life in Parkinson's? Yes. A two-year study of people with Parkinson's found that those who exercised regularly, at least 2.5 hours per week, had better quality of life and mobility outcomes than people who did not. The benefit was small but significant, and it also appeared in people who started exercising after the study began. Keep reading to learn more:

Think yoga isn't for you because you can't get down on a mat? Good news: you don't have to leave your chair.

Researchers have been testing yoga adapted for people with Parkinson's, including chair-supported versions, and early results are encouraging. Here's what they found, and why it matters if stiffness, balance, or fear of falling is holding you back.

Is chair yoga good for Parkinson's disease? Research suggests it may be. In a randomized pilot study, people with Parkinson's who took part in an 8-week, twice-weekly yoga program showed improvements in motor function, postural stability, and gait, along with a reduced risk of falls. The studies are small, so more research is needed. Keep reading to learn more:

Everyone tells you to exercise with Parkinson's. But which kind? With so many options, it's easy to wonder whether you're picking the right one.

Here's where the research gets interesting: when scientists compared tai chi, yoga, and resistance training head-to-head, one slow, graceful practice stood out.

What is the best exercise for Parkinson's balance? A 2024 systematic review found tai chi, yoga, and resistance training all improved balance in people with Parkinson's, but tai chi had the most significant positive impact on balance and gait. A landmark clinical trial also found tai chi reduced falls and improved postural stability more than other exercise types tested. Keep reading to learn more:

What if one of the best things for your balance felt less like a workout and more like a night out? For people living with Parkinson's disease, dance is getting serious scientific attention.
Here's the surprise: it's not just fun. A published research review from Washington University School of Medicine suggests dance may be a genuine therapeutic option for PD — and the reasons why are fascinating.

Can dance help Parkinson's disease? Research suggests dance may be an effective alternative to traditional exercise for people with Parkinson's disease, helping with balance, walking, and quality of life. A review by Dr. Gammon Earhart in the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine found early benefits while noting that more research is needed. Keep reading to learn more: