"Exercise is the key to empowering your body, uplifting your spirit, and embracing the fullness of life. In every step, you defy the challenges of Parkinson's, proving that strength, resilience, and joy can be found in motion. Seize the opportunity to move, thrive, and redefine what's possible."
Exercise Advice and Videos
One tool we recommend for fatigue management is doing regular exercise. The research evidence suggests that you should try to exercise for at least 30 minutes three times a week. Engaging in regular exercise has proven benefits for individuals with Parkinson's. From improving mobility and balance to boosting mood and energy levels, taking exercise is an integral part of your holistic wellness plan. By exercising regularly you will improve your stamina and energy for everyday activities. Exercise improves the quality of people's sleep, again impacting on your fatigue levels.
Watch the video below for a discussion of how exercise can reduce your fatigue and improve your wellbeing.
Remember, Safety First!
Your safety is paramount. If you have any concerns about taking on an exercise program (particularly if you have another health condition that may increase risk such as lung or heart disease) we recommend you talk to your GP or clinical team about what exercise is appropriate for you.
Additionally, people with Parkinson’s are at increased risk of falls, and we ask everyone undertaking exercise to be mindful of this risk. For example, we recommend clearing a generous space if doing exercise at home, and maybe placing a phone nearby if you don’t have anyone at home with you when exercising.
Finally, we recognize that you may not have been doing much exercise recently. If this is so, please start slowly and gradually increase the amount of exercise you do every week. Over doing exercise can lead to pain, which is not helpful. Also, we know you may have other health conditions (e.g. arthritis, long Covid) that reduce your capacity to do exercise. Please listen to your body and do what works for you.
Exercise Videos
We recommend incorporating at least 30 minutes of exercise three times a week, as advocated by Wu's guidelines (2021). It's essential to choose exercises that challenge your balance, as studies suggest they can significantly alleviate fatigue (Abasi 2020; Ribas 2017).
To access a diverse range of expert-led exercise programs and tutorials, we encourage you to explore the Parkinson's UK YouTube channel. There, you'll find a wealth of resources catered to different fitness levels and preferences.
In addition to structured programs, consider integrating various forms of exercise into your daily routine. By diversifying your activities, you can promote long-term engagement and vitality.
Start exploring the Parkinson's UK YouTube channel today to discover inspiring and informative exercise content.
Other exercise recommendations
The exercise videos are not the only type of exercise we recommend. We recommend you find exercises that you enjoy and can fit into your everyday life. We recommend that some of your exercise program challenges your balance e.g. dance, tai chi, yoga or Wii fit games. Some of your exercises should make you a bit out of breath. Read an article exploring cheap and accessible ways to stay fit .
Computer fitness games (e.g. Wii Fit Games)
There is research evidence that playing computer games that encourage fitness can be effective for people with Parkinson's. An example of these are Wii Fit Games which can be bought relatively cheaply second-hand on online marketplaces (e.g. Ebay). This allows you to turn your fitness program into a game which is known to help you stick with it. As ever please consider your safety when setting up the equipment for these games, and ensure you have the space to move around freely without hitting furniture etc.
Sticking with it
We all know that whilst we may have the best of intentions, it can be hard to stick with a new exercise program long term. We want you to stay exercising regularly well past the end of this fatigue management program. So what does it take to stay motivated? How can you increase the chances that you will continue exercising?
Motivators can include doing something because you enjoy it. Also, seeing progress and reaching your goals are very motivating. So have some fun and keep exercising with the following suggestions.
Keep it fun
Exercise with friends. This will make sure you have company, and you can give each other encouragement. Also, it’s more difficult to skip an exercise session when someone else is relying on you being there.
Choose an activity you like. Remember, this is supposed to be fun. Choose exercises you enjoy.
Learn a new activity. Take up dance, tai chi, or swimming. The new challenge will keep you coming back to meet the next challenge.
Begin easy and slowly increase your effort. We recognize you may not have done much exercise for a while. Trying too much too soon can result in sore muscles or injury. Pain is not fun – and it is not necessary. Be realistic with what you expect to accomplish and aim for small but regular improvements – even 10% increase per week will result in significant gains over time.
Mix it up. Do different types of exercise across your week. For example, take a yoga class once a week, follow an exercise video on another day, and then challenge your grandchild to a Wii Fit game on another day. Mixing up your types of exercise will work different parts of your body and reduce boredom.
Fit Exercise into Your Life
Convenience. Choose an activity that you can fit into your current schedule. For example, find a yoga class run in a hall near your home. Find a time of day when you are most likely to avoid conflicts with other activities (e.g., early in the morning, lunch, or evening). The more convenient the exercise, the more likely you’ll stick with it.
Establish a routine. Once you pick a place and time to exercise, keep doing it. Make it a part of your regular schedule. For example, block out the time in your planner for exercise. As you stick to your routine, exercise will become a habit.
Make exercise a priority. Schedule exercise before scheduling other activities. Make a commitment to your exercise program.
Combine family-time with exercise. Go for a walk, hike, or take a bike ride together. Make the activity something everyone in the family can enjoy together. Be creative (e.g., hike to a picnic area).
Special Recognition to Parkinson's UK:
We extend our sincere appreciation to Parkinson's UK for generously allowing us to feature their exercise videos in our ReFresh Program. These videos, produced by 1fitLife, are a valuable addition to our initiative, supporting individuals with Parkinson's in managing fatigue through engaging and effective exercises.
Additional Resources and Support
We understand that managing fatigue in Parkinson's can be a complex journey, and additional support may be beneficial. Here are some trusted resources you can explore for further assistance:
Parkinson's UK Helpline:
Parkinson's UK is a leading charity offering support and conducting research for Parkinson's disease.
Helpline: Call their free, confidential helpline at 0808 800 0303 (available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 6 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm).
Email: Reach out via email at hello@parkinsons.org.uk.
MIND - For Better Mental Health:
MIND is a mental health charity providing valuable information, support, and services.
Visit their MIND Information and Support Page for a range of guides and resources.