Viney Hall is excited to be supported by Parkinson’s UK, offering new exercise classes for those living with Parkinson’s. The classes are based on the most recent research on benefits of high intensity interval training, creating and modifying exercises to specifically help Parkinson’s symptoms. They will be led by our Neuro specialist physiotherapist, Meg Bourne, in our beautiful studio at Viney Hall. Meg is trained in the PD Warrior method and has adapted the exercises for our clients.
The classes will run as a block of 10 classes starting in Oct/Nov 2024. Prior to starting, each participant will attend an initial 1:1 assessment, 2 small group sessions to familiarise the exercises and 1 follow up session at the end of the course to evaluate improvements.
The Benefits of High-Intensity Interval Training for People Living with Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, exercise has been shown to slow down its progression and improve overall quality of life. One form of exercise that is gaining increasing attention is high-intensity interval training. Though it may sound daunting, high-intensity workouts can be adapted to suit the individual needs of people with Parkinson’s. In fact, research shows that these types of exercises can have significant benefits for managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s and maintaining physical and mental health.
Slows Disease Progression
This is one of the most promising effects of high-intensity exercises. Studies suggest that regular high-intensity workouts may help protect brain cells that are often affected by Parkinson’s. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) or vigorous aerobic activities increase the production of neurotrophic factors, which are proteins that support the growth, function, and survival of neurons. This can help delay the onset of more severe symptoms by preserving the health of dopamine-producing cells, which are gradually lost in Parkinson’s.
Improves Motor Function and Mobility
High-intensity exercises can significantly enhance motor function, helping to improve mobility, balance, and coordination. Parkinson’s affects movement by causing stiffness, slowness, and tremors. However, exercises that push the body to work harder help retrain the brain to better control movements. Research has shown that intense aerobic exercises, in particular, help the brain rewire its motor pathways, which can reduce the severity of symptoms such as freezing of gait or muscle rigidity. A structured exercise program focusing on agility, coordination, and strength can help individuals with Parkinson’s move more efficiently and with greater ease.
Builds Strength and Reduces Fall Risk
As Parkinson’s progresses, muscle strength tends to decline, making it harder to perform basic activities like standing, walking, or climbing stairs. High-intensity resistance exercises included in our ‘HIIT’ Parkinson’s Classes can help combat this decline by improving muscle strength and flexibility. By building core strength and improving posture, individuals with Parkinson’s are less likely to suffer from falls. Incorporating balance and agility training further helps reduce the risk of injury from falls.
Promotes Cardiovascular Health
Parkinson’s can cause deconditioning of the body’s cardiovascular system over time. High-intensity exercises help to maintain heart health by improving circulation, lowering blood pressure, and increasing lung capacity. Cardiovascular fitness is essential for people with Parkinson’s as it directly impacts endurance, energy levels, and the ability to perform everyday activities.
Maintaining a healthy heart and lungs also plays a role in reducing fatigue, which can be a debilitating symptom of Parkinson’s. By strengthening the cardiovascular system through regular high-intensity workouts, individuals can improve their stamina and maintain an active lifestyle.
Enhances Cognitive Function
Parkinson’s not only affects physical movement but also impairs cognitive function, leading to challenges with memory, attention, and problem-solving. High-intensity exercise stimulates the brain and improves neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. Studies suggest that high-intensity exercise may improve cognitive function in people with Parkinson’s, including enhancing memory, attention span, and executive functioning (planning, multitasking).
Boosts Mood and Reduces Depression
Depression and anxiety are common among people living with Parkinson’s, often exacerbated by the isolation and frustration that can come with managing the condition. High-intensity exercise help to boost endorphins released during workouts. Vigorous exercise also reduces levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, helping to alleviate feelings of anxiety and improve emotional well-being.
Fosters a Sense of Community
Participating in group-based high-intensity exercise not only improves physical health but also provides social benefits. It creates a sense of community where people with Parkinson’s can connect, share experiences, and motivate each other.This social interaction is key to battling the isolation that often accompanies Parkinson’s and provides emotional support and encouragement that can make a big difference in the day-to-day management of the condition.
Conclusion
High-intensity exercise is emerging as a powerful tool for people living with Parkinson’s. Not only can it slow the progression of symptoms, but it also improves physical mobility, enhances mental health, and strengthens social connections. By incorporating high-intensity exercise into a well-rounded approach to Parkinson’s management, individuals can take an active role in controlling their symptoms, staying healthy, and living life to the fullest.
Together with all these benefits, an important aim of ours is to make our classes fun and enjoyable as well as creating a good sense of community.
If you have any questions or would like any further information on the specialist support and rehabilitation we offer at Viney Hall Physiotherapy for Parkinson’s please do not hesitate to contact us either via email mail@vineyhallphysio.co.uk or telephone 01594 516810
Useful links: https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/
https://www.vineyhallphysio.co.uk/team-member/megan-bourne
https://www.vineyhallphysio.co.uk/services/physiotherapy-in-forest-of-dean/neuro-therapy
