Exercise program gives strength to those with Parkinson’s

Just over a year ago, Sharon Culley was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease after experiencing tremors.

“Parkinson’s wants you to shrink and get timid,” she said. “It can affect people of all ages, shapes, sizes and sex.”

The disorder occurs when nerve cells in the part of the brain that controls movement degenerate and lose the ability to produce dopamine. Without enough dopamine, the brain can’t transmit signals to coordinate movement.

Culley learned about an exercise program hosted at RISE Fitness + Adventure in Rehoboth in partnership with the Parkinson’s Education and Support Group of Sussex County. The program offers more than a dozen weekly classes to members at no charge; some facilities may charge a membership fee. 

Amanda Peters, a former owner of RISE who is still involved with its Parkinson’s fitness group, said RISE has hosted the exercise program for about eight years.

“Parkinson’s is a punch in the gut,” Peters said. “It makes you smaller. You move and talk less. Your steps get smaller; even your handwriting gets smaller. Exercise is the best medicine because it boosts dopamine levels.”

Add to that, she said, as people age, they lose muscle and bone density, giving those with Parkinson’s an extra layer of difficulty when it comes to movement. 

“So, daily exercise is essential once you’re diagnosed with Parkinson’s,” she said. “It’s a full-time job. You must fit it into your day.”

Group fitness tends to give members accountability, she said, and it provides support to keep them motivated.

Members first attend a Parkinson’s orientation class, where they learn how to prepare for classes and make exercise part of their weekly routine. Details include what to eat and drink before and after class, and resources and education available through the Parkinson’s Education and Support Group of Sussex County.  

About 40 people are in the program, attending daily classes to improve balance and mobility, and strengthen muscles to meet their different fitness levels. Zoom classes are also available to view from home.

Before attending the program, Culley said she had been timid about using the stairs and navigating curbs.

“But, you see you can do it in class, so you can do it on the street,” she said. “It builds your confidence. I feel stronger because I’m exercising. I still get wobbly or intimidated by a curb, and I have to tell myself – you can do this.”

Along with the exercise, Culley said she enjoys the companionship and social interaction with other members, who encourage each other when they see someone struggling.

“This group, they are fighters,” Peters said. “They are fighting every day. They support each other, and they help each other.”

Go to sussexdeparkinsons.com or email contact@sussexdeparkinsons.com to learn about the Parkinson’s Education and Support Group of Sussex County.