Physical activity with progressing symptoms
If your symptoms are progressing, focus on physical activity that takes effort and pushes you. This could be a fast-paced 20 minute walk.
Also, target your symptoms. Yoga, tai chi, Pilates or Parkinson's exercise classes will help with strength, balance, movement and flexibility.
Talk to a physiotherapist who knows about Parkinson’s for more advice and to plan the right physical activity for you, especially if you're just getting started.
Many of our local groups across the UK offer exercise classes specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s, at all stages of the condition.
3 things we know about physical activity if your symptoms are progressing
Regular physical activity will improve your strength, balance, posture and flexibility. It can also help with sleep, tiredness, your mood and mental health.
It's good to focus on the rewards of physical activity. Keeping your body fit will help you carry on doing the things that matter to you.
Physical activity that works the body and mind at the same time are really good to manage Parkinson’s.
Free Everyone Active membership
Interested in going for a swim, joining a class, or building up your strength?
We've partnered up with Everyone Active, who has over 190 local leisure, gym, swim and activities facilities. If you or your loved one is living with Parkinson's, you can sign up for free membership.
Physical activity if your symptoms are progressing
Watch our animation to find out more about physical activity if your symptoms are progressing, and why it's so important.
Thanks to the Light Fund for their support with our exercise animations.
"...as my symptoms progressed I had to cut down on a lot of the high impact sports, as I just couldn’t manage them anymore. Instead I discovered table tennis and walking football. They were still physically challenging but more gentle, and didn’t wear me out as much."
Paul is a former dog handler with Essex Police. Here he talks about how he adapted his fitness regime as his symptoms have progressed.
"I have been given the opportunity to work with a number of people living with Parkinson’s, creating safe and effective fitness programmes, tailored to their needs. I’ve always been passionate about helping people of all ages and abilities and I am a strong believer that everyone can benefit from some form of exercise."
We meet Tom Burridge, a personal trainer based in Exeter, who works with people with Parkinson’s.
“For me, walking football takes me back to my best playing days, where the one thing that got me through everything was football..."
Former semi-professional footballer John was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012. He talks about how sport helped him tackle the condition head on.
People with Parkinson’s have a higher risk of fracturing a bone than the general population, so it’s especially important to look after your bone health. We learn more with Dr Donald Grosset, our Clinical Director.
How to stay physically active at home
In this print at home resource, we’ve put together some of the best exercises to help you stay active at home when you have Parkinson’s.
Our exercise guidance is supported by the We Are Undefeatable campaign. The campaign aims to support people living with health conditions to build physical activity into their lives and to celebrate every victory - big or small.
Want help with starting to move more? The campaign is full of ideas and resources to help you start your journey to being active.