So Many Reasons For High Intensity Exercise

Hello NoN Community,

This is not a new topic for us here, but we wanted to do a quick reminder blog.  High intensity has some of the absolute best research supporting it as a method to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life in people with Parkinson's Disease.  While high intensity exercise might not sound like the most exciting way to improve your life, we strongly encourage you to discuss it with your healthcare team so you can participate safely and effectively to get all of the benefits below!

This can happen through a variety of mechanisms:

1. Improved motor function: Parkinson's disease is characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). High intensity exercise has been shown to improve these symptoms by increasing the brain's production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is depleted in Parkinson's disease.
   
2. Increased mobility: High intensity exercise can improve mobility and reduce falls in people with Parkinson's disease. Exercise can improve balance, strength, and flexibility, which are all important factors for maintaining mobility and preventing falls.
   
3. Improved cardiovascular health: People with Parkinson's disease have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and high intensity exercise can improve cardiovascular health and reduce this risk.
   
4. Reduced depression and anxiety: Depression and anxiety are common in people with Parkinson's disease, and high intensity exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of both conditions.
   
5. Improved quality of life: High intensity exercise can improve overall quality of life in people with Parkinson's disease by reducing symptoms and increasing physical and mental function.
   

Overall, high intensity exercise is an effective way to improve the lives of people living with Parkinson's disease. It can improve motor function, mobility, cardiovascular health, mental health, and overall quality of life.  The benefits are truly endless.  As before, we strongly recommend that you consult with your healthcare team to help set up the best possible schedule to get the maximal benefits from exercise and healthy lifestyle choices.

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