Parkinson’s Disease: Exercising Through the Stages
April 24, 2025
People with Parkinson’s disease often experience problems with balance, movement and muscle weakness. To help, doctors routinely recommend exercise.
“Exercise has been strongly associated with better functioning in activities of daily living, in cognitive processing, in speed of activities, postural stability, balance, gait,” says Roger P. Rossi, D.O., director of the Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Program at Hackensack Meridian Health’s JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute and Saint Joseph’s Health. “Anything from aerobic to strengthening to high-intensity has been beneficial.”
How Exercise Can Benefit People with Parkinson's
A growing body of research confirms the positive effects of exercise on Parkinson’s disease. It may help address issues with balance and flexibility.
“One of the first evidence-based studies was on Argentinian tango,” Dr. Rossi says. “That showed that individuals were moving better, less slowness and increased motor ability.”
When people with Parkinson’s disease exercise, they may slow their disease and disease progression. High intensity exercise may reverse some of Parkison’s disease effects on the brain and enhance brain neuronal connectivity;. according to research.
“To affect the symptomatology and enhance an individual’s quality of life, we know exercise is probably just as important as medication management,” Dr. Rossi says.
People with Parkinson’s disease can benefit from:
- Aerobic activity
- Strength training
- Exercises to improve balance and agility
- Exercises to help with flexibility
- Multitasking exercises, like walking and talking
It’s never too early or too late for someone with Parkinson’s disease to start exercising. There are benefits for people with early, moderate and advanced disease.
Exercises for Early Parkinson’s Disease
People with early Parkinson’s may begin to develop issues with movement and walking. If they exercise regularly, it may help to preserve their function.
Because of their mobility and better balance, they have many exercise options.
“Early on is the high-intensity, the aerobic conditioning, the rowing, maybe ping pong or Rock Steady boxing,” Dr. Rossi says. “Light resistance bands can be helpful too. It doesn’t necessarily have to be weight machines.”
Exercises for Moderate Parkinson’s Disease
People with moderate Parkinson’s may have falls because of balance problems. They may need a cane or walker.
Exercises focused on balance, agility and flexibility may help people with moderate disease. They can modify activities like yoga and tai chi to match their abilities.
“If you’re not able to do yoga standing poses, you can benefit from a seated position or lying down,” Dr. Rossi says. “There’s always modified positions, and yoga is helpful for breathing and relaxation.”
There are modifications for other forms of exercise, as well.
“Simple walking is fine, and it could be with an assistive device,” Dr. Rossi says. “And seated exercise for core stability and leg strength can help with balance.”
Exercises for Advanced Parkinson’s Disease
People with advanced Parkinson’s may need a walker or wheelchair, or they may stay in bed.
A family caregiver may need to be involved with their exercise regimen.
“It could be simple stretching, maybe a care partner assisting with stretching to prevent stiffness,” Dr. Rossi says. “Stretching, light strengthening, deep breathing, focused intention, mindfulness and meditation can create benefits neurologically, as well as systemically.”
How to Get Started
Choose an activity that you enjoy, so you keep at it. Look for positive results, which may inspire you to continue.
“By being active, you may be feeling better, not needing as much of your medication, sleeping better or eating better,” Dr. Rossi says.
Ask your doctor the best way to get started on an appropriate exercise routine. They may recommend:
- Walking indoors or outdoors
- Taking fitness classes designed for Parkinson’s patients
- Trying yoga or tai chi
- Using resistance bands for strength training
- Meeting with a personal trainer for workouts
“It’s important to understand that exercise is great for your brain: it’s neuro-protective, neuro-enhancing, and it’s an absolute must for anyone to better manage their journey with Parkinson’s disease,” Dr. Rossi says.
Next Steps & Resources:
- Meet our source: Roger P. Rossi, D.O.
- To make an appointment with Dr. Rossi or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
