Getting outdoors with Parkinson's

What's this Parkinson's/boxing connection? I wondered that myself when someone suggested I take up boxing shortly after I was diagnosed. Me? I detest boxing. I'm no peacenik, but a sport where the main objective is hurting another person is just wrong. Then I was invited to check out a Rock Steady Boxing class. The program has spread throughout the country and is designed specifically for people at any stage of Parkinson's disease. The curriculum emphasizes key fitness areas -- cardio,...

Why it works Let's say you're seeking a new way to exercise, something that will really motivate you. You might make a list of characteristics you want in it: wide-ranging -- covers endurance, strength, balance, flexibilitycompetitive -- but at a level you choosesocial -- there's time for talking and laughinginteresting -- no two sessions are alikelow cost -- equipment required is minimal You know where I'm going with this... Try pickleball! It's a sport that's working for many people with...

Enjoy exercise? It can be done During a regular visit to my neurologist this week, she and I had a conversation about exercise. I explained that my exercise routine includes gym workouts, yoga, hikes, pickleball, biking, and going on walks. I thought surely she would marvel at my expansive regimen and my commitment to keeping myself fit and healthy. But she simply said this: “Do you enjoy it?” We talked more about exercise throughout the exam, but it always came back to the same question ......