Training With Parkinson's: Intensity, Amplitude, and Consistency

Parkinson's affects movement in specific, trainable ways: steps get smaller, posture folds forward, movements lose amplitude. Programming should push directly against each of those tendencies.

Large-amplitude movement work — deliberately exaggerated reaching, stepping, and rotation — targets the amplitude deficit. Moderate to vigorous aerobic work supports cardiovascular capacity and has the strongest evidence base for neuroprotection.

Strength training matters too, particularly posterior chain and postural work that resists the forward flexed posture.

Consistency outperforms intensity spikes. Two to three well-structured sessions a week, adjusted to daily symptom fluctuation and medication timing, will beat sporadic hard efforts every time.