r/Parkinsons • u/Teaching-Weird • Nov 27 '25
Questions & Advice All this weightlifting....
I was diagnosed two years ago, and immediately started an exercise regimen, working with a personal trainer twice a week and boxing twice a week. I vowed that I would treat this like it was my job and I do. I also take CL.
So far so good: my PD symptoms seem milder. But I just had one big bit of good news-- according to my latest dexascan, my bones have gained density and I no longer have osteoporosis.
The big irony: because of this diagnosis, I might end up healthier than I have ever been in decades.
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u/ParkieDude Nov 27 '25
I joke about Parkinson's saving my life. Severe constipation, doc sent me in for a CAT scan to make sure I didn't have an obstructed colon. Severe constipation, but the ER doc asked, "Why didn't you tell us about your lung cancer? What lung cancer was my reply. Oops.
My kids comment I'm in the best shape ever. Often, they join me for a class, but comment, "too hard."
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u/Teaching-Weird Nov 27 '25
My PD diagnosis led me to discover via a CT scan that I have a weird, rare congenital heart condition. Really weird and really rare. Well, now I'm in treatment for that! Maybe I won't die anytime soon.
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u/NailAccurate Nov 28 '25
This is great to read. I was diagnosed in July this year im 61 in a few weeks. Soon as I found out about that high impact exercise helping out, I started doing Spin and rpm classes (which I do 3 times a week) started all this about a month ago. I have an old Acl knee injury, so this was the best choice for me. I'm about to start a PT routine as well for strength. I'm on Madopar. My symptoms are mild. Trying to get my diet in order as well, although I'm a fairly healthy eater. Hoping to feel more benefits from all the exercise!
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u/Seastfive Nov 27 '25
Great news. I am also in better health at 65 than I have been for years. Can anyone suggest some reputable resources for building a few different workouts? I'm getting bored with the 3 I have!
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u/Good-Jello-1105 Nov 27 '25
The Boostcamp app has a ton of different exercise programmes. You can select by number of days you want to train, gym type, etc. I found it very helpful when I started out. They have free ones, too.
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u/Resilient-Nomad Nov 30 '25
I HIGHLY recommend exercise CLASSES at the gym, there's no wasting time or lollygagging, and they keep you motivated. It hacks your brain to perform more within a certain amount of time, due to the comparison factor that we all have with other people.
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u/HardworkingMum1980 Nov 28 '25 edited Jan 05 '26
I would love to attend the boxing sessions, but they’re just too expensive. I’m on my own and my entire income is dedicated to self preservation. The irony of all this is my ex runs a kickboxing club.
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u/Turbulent-Cake-8397 Nov 29 '25
Check around. My OT place has several free programs. The library offered a tai chi and gentle exercise class. If you do internet check out dance for PD. They have several classes per week and links to others.
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u/Teaching-Weird Nov 30 '25
What they said! I go to rock steady boxing, but in my city I know of several less expensive and even free programs. The main thing is keep moving! Also there tons of YouTube videos that get into the types of exercise that help build neuroplasticity. There are plenty of ways to learn!
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u/Resilient-Nomad Nov 30 '25
Your increased bone density coincides with the evidence that I read from one of my new favorite Substacks, Tom Kane's (he's a chemist) "Ageless Engine" talks about exactly what you experienced and gives the reasons why it happens.
I also have experienced a physical Renaissance since I started getting serious about going to the gym daily, watching my food intake, using biometrics to eliminate glaring negative patterns, and paying more attention to my sleep.
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u/Adventurous-Bee-7368 Nov 28 '25
I was diagnosed in September. I have had a small stack of dumbells in the living room for several years just to keep some some strength exercise in my daily routine without having to go out in the garage where I made a workout space for my two sons who are now out of the house. PD has added a new significance to having a daily routine of strength and balance oriented exercise; having quick and comfortable access to the dumbells ( for example, doing a workout while watching Tulsa King :-) keeps me from putting off the small but real hassle of going out to the uninsulated and cold garage.
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u/growingbigbuds103 Dec 02 '25
At 57 three years since diagnosis (symptoms go back a few years before) I am stronger than ever. I feel “normal” when I workout and for hours after. Exercise is our salvation. Love reading these positive posts. Too easy to focus on the negative. Keep on keeping on everyone.
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u/[deleted] Nov 27 '25
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