Just Show Up!

The Stanford Parkinson’s Community Outreach states that: “Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle for everyone. When you have Parkinson’s disease (PD), exercise is as important as taking your medications on time. Exercise helps to maintain strength, flexibility, balance, and cognitive acuity so you can continue to do what you have to do and the things you love to do.” 

“I am a 66-year-old male and have had Parkinson’s Disease (PD) for about 6 years or so. As a cycling instructor for the past 17 years, I know the value of exercise in general, and now with PD, I reap the benefits of exercise every day. I am strong, I move well with good balance, and I can do virtually anything I could do previously. I play pickleball, hike, cycle, ski, and much more. I try to do a combination of exercises including cycling, elliptical machines, resistance training, swimming, and stretching. 

I do take my medication religiously, read, do puzzles and try to exercise my mind for the same reasons as I do with physical activity. Through the years, I’ve been asked many times about the key to getting and staying in shape. My answer is always the same…SHOW UP! Sign up for our Aqua Fitness class on Mondays at 12:30 pm.

 Written by Rob Lowenstein 

“Exercise for Parkinson’s Disease: Essential Facts for Patients is worth a quick read. It’s short and to the point.