Hi everyone,
I’m 52 and was diagnosed recently. My question is about going to the gym. I joined 3 weeks ago and have been going every single day and for 1 hour. Would it matter if I only went for 6 days instead of 7. Do you think a one-day rest would do good? Also, can I have homemade muffins and cakes? This is one thing that I haven’t been able to avoid.
Pls advise.
Thanks in advance.
Hi @fatheroftwo, and welcome to our forum.
Well done for getting into the gym after diagnosis. That’s a big positive step! Exercise is one of the best things we can do, and rest is just as important. We all need recovery time, so having rest days each week is often recommended. You may find you feel stronger and less fatigued after a day off, rather than pushing every day.
Listening to your body is key.
You can definitely enjoy homemade muffins and cakes. Parkinson’s doesn’t mean you have to cut out foods you enjoy. Like anyone else, it’s about balance and moderation.
We’re here if you ever need to chat to our team. You can reach us on freephone 0808 800 0303, and no question is too big or too small.
Sending our warmest wishes
The Parkinson’s UK Moderation Team 
Hi,
Thanks very much for your kind response. Much appreciated. Yeah, I guess 60 min 6 days a week should be fine. Also, the day I won’t be going, I’ll deffo end up walking for like an hour or so, running errands here and there.
Thanks again.
Have a nice day.
Hi fatheroftwo,
Yes, gym is really good, or any exercise for that matter.
However I really believe that going 7 times a week for an hour each time is overdoing it.
You are not allowing your muscles to recover properly, unless of course you are a major body builder.
Two days on then a day off then another two days is more than enough at gym.
For example, Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday rest day then Thursday and Friday.
And you really do not have to only go to gym. You can have a brisk walk or cycle etc for say 30 minutes as well.
I normally go to gym 3-4 times a week and cycles once or twice a week.
I try to limit it to 5 times a week. Four times is also fine. That is more than sufficient.
Remember one of the symptoms of this disgusting disease is that the muscles get weaker so you have to expend a lot more energy to accomplish the same results.
Oh and yes, cake and muffins are definitely ok. Especially if the cake is a baked cheese cake, or of course a carrot cake.
Hi Clive,
Thanks very much. Yeah, it’s a bummer that muscles get weaker as it progresses. Well, I hope there’s a better treatment for it before the decade ends. I’m pretty sure there’ll be something good for all of us by 2030. What do you think?
Hello fatherof two
This may be of interest to you.
Tot
The generally recommended amount of exercise for people with Parkinson’s disease is
at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous intensity activity
. Research indicates that starting this level of activity early, and consistently, can help manage symptoms, maintain mobility, and slow the decline in quality of life.
Parkinson’s Foundation +2
Key Recommendations for Exercise Time & Frequency:
Total Weekly Goal: Minimum of 2.5 hours (150 minutes) per week.
Aerobic Activity: At least 3 days a week for a minimum of 30–40 minutes per session.
Strength Training: 2–3 non-consecutive days per week.
Flexibility/Balance: Daily integration is ideal, or at least 2–3 days a week.
Yale Medicine +4
Intensity and Type of Exercise
The intensity of the exercise is just as important as the duration. The goal is to move enough to get your heart rate up and feel out of breath.
Parkinson’s Foundation +1
Moderate Intensity: You can carry on a conversation but cannot sing.
Vigorous Intensity: You can only say a few words before needing to take a breath.
Recommended Activities: Brisk walking, cycling (stationary bikes are often recommended for safety), swimming, water aerobics, or dancing.
Functional Training: Activities like boxing, tai chi, or yoga are excellent for improving balance, coordination, and multitasking.
Yale Medicine +3
Important Considerations
Consistency is Key: Exercise improvements can dissipate after 4 weeks of inactivity, so it must be integrated into a regular, long-term routine.
Safety First: If you have balance issues or a “freezing” gait, opt for safer, seated, or supported activities.
Consult a Specialist: It is highly recommended to see a physical therapist specializing in Parkinson’s for a personalized plan.
Time it Right: It is often best to exercise during “on” periods, when your medication is working effectively.
Yale Medicine +3
While 150 minutes is the goal, for those with advanced Parkinson’s or who are less active, starting with shorter, consistent sessions and gradually building up is effective.
Hi fatheroftwo,
We can but hope.
Also remember that everyones’ symptoms with PD is different and that’s why it is so difficult to have general/one- size fits all solutions.
But as they say, the experts are the ones that actually have the condition, so bearing in mind the exercise suggestions, your body will tell you what is best for you.
thank you so much.