Three intense workouts a week could slow the progression of Parkinson's disease, according to a study. A team of researchers at Northwestern Medicine and the University of Colorado School of Medicine have found that vigorous exercise in the early stage of the degenerative disease can decrease worsening of motor symptoms.
The symptoms of the disease include progressive loss of muscle control, trembling, stiffness, slowness and impaired balance. As the disease progresses, it may become difficult to walk, talk and complete simple tasks. Most people who develop Parkinson's are 60 and older.
"If you have Parkinson's disease and you want to delay the progression of your symptoms, just a stroll isn't sufficient. You should exercise three times a week with your heart rate between 80 to 85 percent maximum. It is that simple," said lead author Margaret Schenkman.

Three intense workouts a week could slow the progression of Parkinson's disease, according to a study. A team of researchers at Northwestern Medicine and the University of Colorado School of Medicine have found that vigorous exercise in the early stage of the degenerative disease can decrease worsening of motor symptoms.
The symptoms of the disease include progressive loss of muscle control, trembling, stiffness, slowness and impaired balance. As the disease progresses, it may become difficult to walk, talk and complete simple tasks. Most people who develop Parkinson's are 60 and older.
"If you have Parkinson's disease and you want to delay the progression of your symptoms, just a stroll isn't sufficient. You should exercise three times a week with your heart rate between 80 to 85 percent maximum. It is that simple," said lead author Margaret Schenkman.