Parkinsons Exercise Framework

Question 1

What are the three key pillars of the Parkinson’s exercise framework?

Answer 1

Investing in exercise from diagnosis onwards, staying active, managing complex (physical) challenges.

Question 2

Why should exercise begin from diagnosis?

Answer 2

Increasing exercise to 2.5 hours per week may slow progression of symptoms and prevent complications of inactivity.

Question 3

What lifestyle approach is encouraged from diagnosis?

Answer 3

An exercise-focused, social and enjoyable lifestyle supported by family, friends, or Parkinson’s networks.

Question 4

What type of exercise intensity is recommended early on?

Answer 4

Moderate to vigorous intensity to get the best performance from the body.

Question 5

How often should aerobic exercise be performed?

Answer 5

Ideally 5 times per week in 30-minute bouts (can be built over time).

Question 6

How often should progressive resistance training be performed?

Answer 6

Ideally 2 times per week.

Question 7

Why is large movement and coordination training important?

Answer 7

To target postural control, balance, twisting movements, and coordination.

Question 8

What is important when considering barriers like fatigue or travel?

Answer 8

Adapt exercise style with these barriers in mind.

Question 9

What is the focus of the ‘staying active’ phase?

Answer 9

Maintaining or increasing activity beyond diagnosis levels and targeting Parkinson’s-specific issues.

Question 10

Why is dual-task training included?

Answer 10

To improve balance and the ability to do two things at once.

Question 11

Why should both body and mind be exercised?

Answer 11

To help manage progression and support memory, attention, and learning.

Question 12

How can exercise help non-motor symptoms?

Answer 12

Improves mood and sleep.

Question 13

What types of exercises support balance and posture?

Answer 13

Flexibility (dynamic stretching), resistance exercises, balance exercises, and postural exercises.

Question 14

Why is ongoing review by health professionals important?

Answer 14

To ensure exercise remains appropriate and progressive.

Question 15

What is the focus of managing complex physical challenges?

Answer 15

Maintaining function in daily activities and preventing discomfort from postural changes.

Question 16

What types of exercises are useful for complex challenges?

Answer 16

Functional exercise, supervised classes, resistance band work, pedal exercisers, and home programs.

Question 17

What types of sport are suitable from diagnosis onwards?

Answer 17

Racket sports, cycling, jogging, running, swimming.

Question 18

What community or leisure activities are recommended?

Answer 18

Aerobics, vigorous classes (e.g. boot camps), Nordic walking.

Question 19

What Parkinson’s-specific programs are mentioned?

Answer 19

PD Warrior, boxing training classes, PWR! programme, Parkinson’s UK exercise classes.

Question 20

What flexibility-with-strength activities are recommended?

Answer 20

Tai chi, Pilates, yoga.

Question 21

What activities support staying active socially?

Answer 21

Golf, bowling, paired dance, health walks, swimming.

Question 22

What is the overall message of the framework?

Answer 22

Exercise should be specific, progressive, ongoing, and adapted across the disease course to maintain function and quality of life.