Exercise Slows Progression in Early Parkinson's

Just 1 to 2 hours of moderate-to-vigorous exercise twice a week appears to slow disease progression and cognitive decline in patients with early Parkinson's disease (PD), new research shows.

Investigators followed over 200 patients with early stage PD for up to 6 years, assessing exercise levels at baseline and throughout the study period. They found those who engaged in 4 hours of moderate-to-vigorous exercise per week had a slower decline in postural and gait stability and processing speed 5 years later versus their peers with lower exercise levels.

Even those who were physically active 1 to 2 hours twice weekly experienced slower disease progression compared with those who were physically active for 1 hour.

The study was published online January 13 in Neurology.