People With Parkinsons Disease (PWP)

BActive Parkinsons

 

Parkinson’s doesn’t get to call the shots.

Yes, the diagnosis sounds heavy — even ominous. But here’s the truth: movement is one of the most powerful tools we have to fight back. The right exercises can help you walk taller, move more freely, and feel more confident in everyday life.

Over the past decade, I’ve worked with many People with Parkinson’s (PWPs), and I’ve seen first-hand how a smart, targeted approach can change everything. I focus on seven key areas:

1. Gait – taking back your stride.
That classic shuffling walk? We work on lengthening your steps, adding rhythm, and building the confidence to move with ease.

2. Posture – standing tall again.
Parkinson’s can pull you forward, but postural righting exercises help you realign, slow that progression, and feel balanced.

3. Flexibility – easing stiffness.
Stiff joints and tight muscles don’t have to rule your day. Stretching and mobility drills keep you moving smoothly.

4. Balance – staying steady.
Falls are a real concern, so we train your balance — and your ability to recover quickly if you do take a tumble.

5. Strength – building independence.
Strong muscles mean you can get up off the floor, carry shopping, and head out on your own without worrying who’s nearby to help.

6. Forced Exercise (KPA) & Coordination – waking up the brain.
I like to call this Kick Parkies A… — because that’s exactly what it feels like. We “trick” your brain into forming new connections by pushing you just beyond your comfort zone with faster-paced, high-effort movement.

7. Voice & Face – because expression matters.
This isn’t just about exercise for your body — it’s for your personality, too. We’ll practice big facial expressions and strong, clear speech (yes, you might be reciting the alphabet mid-workout!) to combat that quiet voice or “masked” expression.  I usually suggest clients do these at home — they’re more comfortable giving it their all when no one’s watching!

Parkinson’s is unique to every person — no two journeys look the same. That’s why personalised, one-on-one training is essential. I’ll design a program around your symptoms, your goals, and your pace.

And if you’re worried about safety, bring a support person along. You’ll both see quickly that you’re in good hands — literally and figuratively.

Click on these testimonials if you want to read some PWP’s stories through their words.