The Best Exercises to Improve Walking Speed for People with Parkinson's Disease

Walking speed is crucial for independence, especially for people with Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s can disrupt walking, leading to shuffling steps, stooped posture, and an increased risk of falls. Over time, walking velocity declines faster in people with PD compared to others, worsening their mobility and quality of life. A recent review and analysis of 54 studies involving 2,828 participants revealed which types of exercise are most effective in improving walking speed for people with Parkinson’s. Here’s what the research found: Key Findings: Types of Exercises That Work Aerobic Exercise (AE): Most effective overall for improving walking speed. Best results achieved with 1,400 MET-minutes per week (a measure of exercise intensity and duration). Example activities: brisk walking, cycling, swimming. Multicomponent Exercise (MulC): Combines strength, balance, and endurance training. Optimal dose: 1,000 MET-minutes per week. Example activities: a mix of resistance training, stretching, and cardio. Sensory Exercise (SE): Focuses on improving sensory perception, such as balance and coordination. Optimal dose: 1,000 MET-minutes per week. Resistance Training (RT): Strength-building exercises, like lifting weights. Best at 750 MET-minutes per week. Mind–Body Exercise (MBE): Includes activities like yoga, Tai Chi, and Qigong. Effective at 500 MET-minutes per week, making it suitable for those seeking lower-intensity options. Why Walking Speed Matters Walking speed isn’t just about mobility—it’s a key indicator of health. A slow walking pace is linked to: Greater difficulty with daily tasks. Higher risk of falls. Increased disability and even mortality. For people with Parkinson’s, walking speed declines more rapidly—by about 0.02 metres per second every six months. This makes improving and maintaining walking velocity a priority in managing the disease. Exercise Recommendations for Parkinson’s The analysis highlights that tailored exercise plans can significantly improve walking speed and overall mobility. While aerobic exercise showed the greatest benefits, other forms like resistance training, sensory exercises, and mind-body workouts also play valuable roles. Combining these approaches could offer even better results. For healthcare providers, this research underscores the importance of prescribing specific types and doses of exercise based on each individual’s needs and abilities. Looking Ahead While exercise improves walking speed, the study suggests there’s room to refine these strategies further to maximise benefits. More research is needed to explore how to tailor exercise routines for people with Parkinson’s to optimise outcomes. Incorporating the right exercise at the right intensity into daily routines could be a game-changer for people with Parkinson’s, helping them regain confidence in their mobility and improve their quality of life. Takeaway If you or someone you know has Parkinson’s, consider integrating a mix of aerobic, resistance, and balance exercises into your routine. Consult a healthcare provider or physical therapist to develop a plan that suits your needs. Even small changes can lead to significant improvements in walking speed and overall independence.