Dancing and Parkinson's Disease
- nyssachennelldutto
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Exercise is essential for managing both quality of life and motor symptoms in Parkinson's Disease. If you're not used to regular movement, this reality can feel overwhelming. You might struggle with motivation, establishing routines, or simply knowing where to start.
Here's encouraging news: recent research shows that the type of movement you choose isn't the most important factor—what matters most is that you do it consistently.
This shift in understanding has opened doors for creative activities and non-traditional exercise forms, which are now gaining recognition for their powerful benefits on both physical symptoms and overall quality of life for people living with Parkinson's. Enter, dancing!
The Dance Effect:
A 2024 Cochrane review analysed exercise data from over 7,000 people with Parkinson's Disease and reached a remarkable conclusion: dancing is one of the most impactful forms of movement for managing and even improving motor symptoms.
Why Does Dancing Work So Well?
Physical Benefits:
Challenges balance and coordination through varied movement sequences
Develops motor multitasking skills (coordinating arms and legs differently)
Encourages faster movement, especially with partners or music
Improves response time and agility
Enhances functional movements like turning while walking and getting out of bed
Cognitive Benefits:
Challenges memory when learning new routines
Provides cognitive stimulation through sequencing, attention span, motor planning
Combines physical and mental challenges simultaneously (thinking, anticipating and planning while moving, or even interacting with a partner)
Quality of Life Benefits:
Improves overall well-being and mood
Creates valuable social connections and community
Offers creative expression and enjoyment
Where to Start? Dance Options to Explore
All dance styles have been shown to have benefits, so why not try:
Traditional Ballroom: Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango
Energetic Options: Zumba, Jazz, Hip Hop
Structured Classes: Ballet, Irish Dancing
Specialized Programs: Dance therapy classes with mixed movements
Remember: All Movement Matters!
While dancing shows exceptional results for motor symptoms in Parkinson's Disease, research confirms that all forms of movement can provide benefits. If dancing isn't appealing to you, countless other exercise options can still make a meaningful difference.
The key is finding movement you enjoy and can maintain consistently—because the best exercise is the one you'll actually do.
*Please note: If you have other medical issues or difficulties and are unsure whether dancing would be suitable, always make sure to consult with your health team.
For more resources on Dance classes for PD or to find one near you, visit any of the below:
References:
Carapellotti, A. M., Stevenson, R., & Doumas, M. (2020). The efficacy of dance for improving motor impairments, non-motor symptoms, and quality of life in Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One, 15(8), e0236820. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0236820
Ernst, M., Folkerts, A. K., Gollan, R., Lieker, E., Caro-Valenzuela, J., Adams, A., Cryns, N., Monsef, I., Dresen, A., Roheger, M., Eggers, C., Skoetz, N., & Kalbe, E. (2023). Physical exercise for people with Parkinson's disease: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 1(1), Cd013856. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD013856.pub2
