Physical activity in water
Mel describes how a research trial into the benefits of exercising in water improved her fitness and wellbeing after diagnosis. And specialist fitness coach Mary gives tips on getting active with Parkinson's.
I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2016. I was 44.
Before diagnosis, I went to the gym, did spin and yoga classes, and swam. I also walked and hiked.
Parkinson’s affected my confidence and made me doubt my ability. Classes and swimming were intimidating and not always accessible. So I began to feel unfit, increasingly stiff and uncomfortable.
Taking the plunge
My Parkinson’s nurse asked if I was interested in a research trial at Inspire2tri, a centre with a special type of pool that has flumes (water currents you can move against), a bike, underwater treadmills and other specialist equipment. Inspire2tri is based in Rutland.
The trial was for people with young onset Parkinson’s like me. It aimed to help us become more physically active to improve our physical and mental health. I’d do this with Mary Hardwick, an exercise coach who started up Inspire2tri and was running the trial along with a Parkinson’s nurse.
At first, I was very nervous and anxious. My symptoms fluctuate enormously, so I needed to think about timing my medication.
In the pool, I followed an exercise programme on different equipment, such as the underwater treadmill, cross trainers and bike. I also used the flumes, elastic resistance bands, an underwater balance board and weights.
Water was my safety net
The support of the water gave me more confidence and I felt more able to try exercises I wouldn’t have coped with otherwise.
For example, it cushioned the impact of my feet hitting the underwater treadmill. Water resistance also increased the effects of the exercises I was doing.
Although I ached afterwards, my body benefitted from moving and stretching in different ways, and being challenged.
It seemed to give me a mental and physical boost, and a short break from some symptoms. Being in water was naturally relaxing and helped ease muscle tension.
Some sessions felt harder than others, but generally if I got in the pool and began to move, it became easier. And I always felt a sense of achievement afterwards.
Reaping the benefits
I still go to Inspire2tri pool sessions every few weeks. I’ve also found forms of exercise that I used to do which are easier for my body now. I’ve returned to yoga at home, and cycling, indoors or on an e-bike with family and friends.
Even when walking is difficult and my mobility is limited, if I can get onto my indoor bike I can still pedal. Being physically active challenges me, and keeps me strong and fit to help me cope with my symptoms.
It also keeps my mind and body busy and takes my mind off my symptoms.
Mary’s tips for getting active
Specialist fitness coach and founder of Inspire2tri Mary Hardwick looks at ways to make exercise easier, in water and on land.
Water provides a fantastic environment to exercise safely if you have a good venue and qualified support if needed. This doesn’t necessarily mean swimming - just using water as a supportive environment to do the things that are hard or frightening to do on land.
Being in water gives you the opportunity to practise skills like balance and movement in different ways without fear of falling or injury.
If you have young onset Parkinson’s, but can’t find anything like Inspire2tri, look out for aqua classes in your local pool. But make sure that your coach or instructor can support you with your Parkinson’s symptoms and medication.
But whether you’re in water or on land, being physically active can help you manage your specific symptoms when you have Parkinson’s.
So find a good instructor to help you think about ways to adapt an exercise or activity you love, but don't feel confident enough to do any more.
You may even find something new that you learn to love as much!
Find classes near you
Find out if your local leisure centre runs aqua classes or disability swimming classes. They may also have instructors or personal trainers who can support you with your Parkinson’s and physical activity – both in and out of water.
Lots of pools should also be able to provide a pool-side chair lift or hoist which can safely lift you into and out of the water, if you need it.
Read more about finding Parkinson’s-friendly exercise classes near you.
Take part in research
Taking part in a research study can come in many forms, from questionnaires to trialling physical activity programmes. Some research can be done from home, while other opportunities will involve visiting a hospital or research centre.
Sign up to our Research Support Network (RSN) for different ways to take part in research.