Workout 2
Regular physical activity may enhance mobility, strength, and flexibility, which are often compromised by Parkinson's Disease. The 5 videos below show exercises suitable for those with Parkinson's Disease. Simply watch them and follow along, in the comfort of your home.
These exercises have been designed to be challenging and engaging on purpose, so that you can challenge yourself to repeat them as often as you need, to help improve your individual outcomes.
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to Parkinson's exercise. Start slowly and gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts over time. Always listen to your body and rest when necessary.
The ABC of Sitting to Standing
In this exercise we will work on:
Breaking down sitting/standing into sub-tasks; Feeling steadier getting up; Physical capacity; Lower limb strength training; Attention and working memory.
Grasping for the Word
In this exercise we will work on: Upper limb amplitude-movement; Reaching and twisting while seated; Lower limb and trunk mobility; Voice and language production; Attention and working memory.
Transition with the pillow
In this exercise we will work on: Sitting and standing; Upper limb amplitude-movement; Overall physical capacity; Lower limb strength training; Movement rhythm; Attention and working memory.
How to take the 1st step
In this exercise we will work on: Breaking down standing and stepping; Focused Attention; Mental calculation; Overall physical capacity; Movement rhythm; Lower limb strength training;
Moving chair to chair
In this exercise we will work on: Large amplitude lateral stepping; Transitions in sitting; Visuo-spatial capacity; Divided attention; Physical capacity; Movement speed.
To learn more about this method click below.
Before starting any exercise programme, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified physiotherapist. They can ensure the exercises are appropriate for your condition and discuss any necessary modifications.
Ensure your home exercise space is safe and clear of clutter. Remove potential hazards, such as loose rugs or furniture, that might obstruct your movements. You might also find it beneficial to use assistive devices like handrails or grab bars for additional stability.
Meet the trainers
Josefa Domingos
Josefa Domingos is a physiotherapist specialising in Parkinson’s disease with 15 years of experience working exclusively with people with Parkinson’s and other movement disorders. As an educator, clinician and researcher, she is currently finishing her PhD on Practicalities of Community Exercise in Parkinson’s Disease at Radboud University Centre (The Netherlands), under the supervision of Professor Bas Bloem. She is also currently the National Health Coordinator of the Portuguese Parkinson Patient Association (APDPk), a Board member of the European Parkinson’s Disease Association (EPDA) and coordinator of the rehabilitation working group of the Portuguese Movement Disorder Society (SPDMov).
John Dean
John M Dean, M.A., CCC-SLP is a speech language pathologist specialising in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and related disorders since 2007. In addition to ongoing clinical work, he has been involved in numerous Parkinson’s-related projects, including developing networks of interdisciplinary Parkinson’s rehab teams for a national healthcare company in the US; founding award-winning start-ups that build technologies for people living with Parkinson’s; and working for a time as Director of Healthcare Strategy and Technology at the Davis Phinney Foundation, an international Parkinson’s non-profit organisation. He currently leads Triad Health AI, a start-up focused on delivering dual task exercise using smart speakers.
Well-being resources
UK/BIAL/2023/030b(1)
Date of preparation: April 2024