How to Sneak Exercise into a Parkinson’s Day

What seems impossible today will one day become your warm up.

I got delayed in a post office line recently. The customer ahead of me was mailing a package to Italy with address issues. Within seconds, I knew the transaction was going to be time-consuming. But I needed to stay to mail an eBay order. As the minutes ticked by, frustrated customers dropped out of line. Others were on their phones or muttering to themselves. I was exercising!

My Light Bulb Moment

My “light bulb moment” as I waited for my turn was a result of what I do while brushing my teeth. I stand on one leg and alternate to the other as I brush. My electric tooth brush stutters after two minutes. I can anticipate when I near the one minute mark and switch legs. Or reach for the goal of standing on one leg for two minutes. (Which by the way I can do without support!) The vanity provides stability if I ever need to lean on it. Single leg balance exercise has improved my posture and increased my leg strength.

So as I was frozen in the post office line, I thought, why not stand on one leg? I have a bar along the waiting line where customers place packages. If necessary, I can lean against it and stay safe. The seventeen minutes before my service turn passed calmly. I returned home feeling clever!

Exercise is Parkinson’s Medication

I understand the importance of exercise. In fact exercise is a medication for Parkinson’s. Evidence-based research shows exercise can slow the progression of the disease. But I do not always get enough exercise.  Doing single leg balance routines is a sneaky way to work exercise into my daily activities. By doing so,  I am also multi-tasking which is good exercise for the neuroplasticity of the brain.

Exercising while waiting can be coupled with a variety of daily activities. Since it is  fun and a change of pace, I am more apt to do it. I have balanced on single leg in a cashier line when I have a cart for support. It works in the kitchen when I have counter support while I am waiting for tea to brew. Brushing my hair, hugging Joe…..you get the picture! Just be creative and you will discover opportunities in your daily life.

A shopping cart provides support if I wobble.

Easy-Peasy. Let’s go for 2 1/2 minutes!

If you are new to this type of exercise, I recommend you consult a physical therapist. Go slowly and be safe. Always have a chair or counter or some form of support that you can lean on or touch with a finger if needed. I recommend viewing this excellent less than one minute video on how to do the single leg balance.

Most people do not notice what I am doing. But when someone asks, I simply say, ”This is one way I maintain balance, improve posture and keep from falling.”

Question to Ponder:  How do you motivate yourself to exercise?  I would love to hear your tips in the comment section.

Blessings!
Linda