(CLAIR) – Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, which can lead to a range of physical and cognitive symptoms. While the disease is commonly associated with older adults, young-onset Parkinson’s disease can occur in people as young as their 30s or 40s, as in the case of Steve Benkovic, a healthy 47-year-old who noticed hand tremors and was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s.
The news of a Parkinson’s diagnosis can be overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that there are ways to manage the disease and maintain a good quality of life. In addition to medication, regular exercise and early intervention can play a crucial role in slowing the progression of Parkinson’s and improving overall health and wellbeing.
Steve’s experience with the non-profit organization Body Brain Train highlights the benefits of exercise and early intervention. After entering their program, Steve was able to regain a sense of independence, moving more freely, and becoming more able to take care of himself. His neurologist had instructed him that the best way to slow the progression of the disease was through consistent movement and exercise.
This advice is backed up by The Parkinson’s Outcomes Project, the largest-ever clinical study of Parkinson’s disease with over 13,000 participants in five countries. The study found that people with Parkinson’s who start exercising earlier in their disease course for a minimum of 2.5 hours per week experience a slowed decline in quality of life compared to those who start later. In fact, establishing early exercise habits is essential to overall disease management.
The benefits of exercise for people with Parkinson’s are numerous. It helps to improve balance, flexibility, strength, and coordination, all of which can be affected by the disease. Exercise can also reduce stiffness and tremors, improve mood and cognitive function, and reduce the risk of falls.
At Body Brain Train, Steve was able to participate in a variety of exercise classes that kept him motivated and his mind active. Kickboxing, cardio-drumming, and sword-wielding classes all contributed to his improvement in movement and overall quality of life.
The non-profit is committed to bringing health and wellness to the Senior Community of Simi Valley, and to help people living with Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia.
The 1st annual Punchathon at CKO Kickboxing, set to take place on Saturday, March 25, 2023, will help raise money to support this important work. The 90-minute workout is an excellent opportunity to raise funds for this much-needed organization.
Exercise and early intervention are crucial in managing Parkinson’s disease. Establishing good exercise habits early in the disease course can significantly slow the decline in quality of life. As Steve’s experience with Body Brain Train shows, exercise can improve mobility, independence, and overall health and wellbeing. The Punchathon is a great opportunity to support this vital work and help improve the lives of people living with this very difficult condition.
For more information on the event and how to donate, please visit the Body Brain Train website.
