Enhancing Movement in Parkinson’s Through the Power of Neuroplasticity

On 11 February 2026, the Parkinson Association of the Carolinas hosted an inspiring webinar titled "The Power of Neuroplasticity & Exercise to Improve Movement in Parkinson's." The session was led by Jenny Yopp, a specialist from The Ivey in Charlotte, North Carolina. With a diverse background as a former college basketball coach, exercise scientist, and certified brain trainer, Jenny brought a wealth of practical wisdom to the discussion. Her core message was both simple and life-changing: when we train our brain, we can actually change our brain. Neuroplasticity is the remarkable ability of the brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections in response to a stimulus. For many years, scientists believed the brain’s structure was fixed after childhood, but modern research has proved that our brains remain "plastic" and adaptable well into adulthood. This means that for people with Parkinson’s, change is not just a hope—it is a physiological reality within their control. There are two main ways this works: structural plasticity involves the physical growth of new neurons, while functional plasticity allows the brain to move functions from damaged areas to healthy ones. To truly harness this power, exercise must be consistent and challenging. Jenny recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. High-intensity interval training, where the heart rate goes up and down, has the most significant impact. Activities such as boxing, cycling, racket sports, and dancing are particularly effective because they require coordination and effort. Every drop of sweat acts like a "bubble bath" of positive neurochemicals for the brain, helping to improve balance, gait, and mood while reducing the risk of falls. One of the most potent tools for brain growth is "dual tasking." This involves challenging the brain cognitively at the exact same time as moving the body. Examples include listening to a complex podcast while walking, doing trivia on a stationary bike, or counting backwards from 100 by threes during water aerobics. This simultaneous demand on the mind and body floods the brain with dopamine and serotonin, helping to build stronger neural pathways. Even simple changes in daily habits, like brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand or taking a new route on your daily walk, provide the "novelty" the brain needs to stay sharp. For neuroplasticity to take root, several factors must align. The tasks we choose should be meaningful and fun, as the brain is more motivated to learn when it is enjoying the process. Consistency is key, and it typically takes about four to six weeks of regular effort to see noticeable improvements in symptoms like tremors or coordination. Furthermore, psychological factors like hope and optimism play a huge role; a hopeful brain is more willing to grow and create new connections. Perhaps the most critical, yet often overlooked, component of this process is sleep. Deep, restorative sleep is the time when the brain "consolidates" all the practice done during the day. Without quality rest, the new connections made during exercise cannot fully set in. Therefore, managing sleep health is just as important as the physical workout itself. By combining targeted exercise, dual tasking, and proper rest, people with Parkinson’s can proactively fight back against the condition and significantly improve their quality of life.