Exercise
Exercise is good for everyone and is especially important for people with Parkinson's as muscles and joints tend to get stiff and rigid.
A regular exercise routine can help you maintain your abilities, strengthen your muscles, increase mobility in your joints and build up your general health and fitness.
Making exercise part of your regular routine also provides a sense of achievement and can reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and depression.
Recent research in animal models of Parkinson's has shown that exercise seems to protect the dopamine-producing nerve cells that are lost in Parkinson's, helping them work better and survive for longer.
This could potentially slow down the progression of Parkinson's - something no current treatment can do.
Research into the effect of exercise in people with Parkinson's has shown some promising results, including improvements in mobility and balance. But as yet, the long-term benefits of exercise are not fully understood.
Researchers are also looking at different types of exercise, including t'ai chi, tango dancing, gym training and hydrotherapy.
Coming soon
With the help of expert physiotherapists and exercise professionals, we’re working on some brand new online exercise materials. These will provide personalised advice depending on which stage your Parkinson’s is at and how much physical activity you’re comfortable with.
You’ll be able to find the new information here later in 2017.
Andy on teaching Tai Chi with Parkinson's
"Doing this has given me purpose and structure. I have to get up to do it, I have to be here, lying in bed isn't an option."