Parkinson’s Patients Benefit From Intense Strength Training

A four-month clinical study involving 15 Parkinson’s patients found that high-intensity resistance training combined with interval training not only improved strength, muscle size and power – which was not surprising – but also improved balance, muscle control, cognition, mood and a sense of well-being. Muscle biopsies taken at the start and conclusion of the study showed positive changes in skeletal muscle at the cellular and subcellular levels associated with improvements in motor function and physical capacity. Strength training produces a major improvement in the ability to activate muscles, generate power and produce energy, the U.S. researchers said, "all of which can contribute to improved quality of life and reduction of injury risk from falls" among Parkinson’s patients.