Why One or Two Classes a Week Isn’t Enough: The Importance of Parkinson’s “Homework”
Why One or Two Classes a Week Isn’t Enough: The Importance of Parkinson’s “Homework”
At Sunshine Coast Parkinson’s Exercise Centre, we love seeing you in our classes, working hard, having fun, and supporting each other. But did you know that attending one or two classes per week isn’t enough to meet best-practice guidelines for Parkinson’s exercise?
Research shows that to achieve real benefits, people with Parkinson’s should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. That means if you’re only coming to class once or twice a week, there’s still work to be done at home—we call it your Parkinson’s exercise “homework.”
Why is Exercise Homework So Important?
Regular movement is key to slowing the progression of symptoms, improving balance and mobility, and keeping your brain and body strong. Just like learning a new skill, repetition is essential—so the more consistently you exercise, the better your results.
By adding at-home exercise to your weekly routine, you’ll keep your body moving every day, maintain the gains you make in class, and feel more confident and independent in daily life.
Easy Ways to Exercise at Home
Here are some fun and simple ways to keep moving between classes:
🏊♂️ Make Use of Your Pool – Many Queenslanders have access to a pool, and water exercise is fantastic for Parkinson’s! Try walking laps in the water, gentle leg kicks, or arm movements to improve strength, balance, and flexibility.
🚶♂️ Take a Scenic Walk – Walking is a great way to stay active, and we’re lucky to have beautiful locations like the Mooloolaba boardwalk or the 5.9km Buderim Forest Park walk. Walk with a friend, focus on big, intentional steps, and try swinging your arms for extra coordination training.
💃 Dance to Music – Put on your favourite tunes and dance around the house! Moving rhythmically to music can improve balance, coordination, and mood while getting your heart rate up.
🪑 Chair-Based Exercises – If you’re having a slower day, sit in a sturdy chair and do seated marching, leg lifts, and arm movements to keep your muscles engaged.
🧘♂️ Stretch & Strengthen – Take 5-10 minutes a day to stretch your body, work on posture exercises, or use light weights or resistance bands to maintain strength.
🚲 Try a Stationary Bike – If you have access to a bike or pedal exerciser, cycling can help with leg strength, coordination, and endurance.
🏋️ Balance & Core Work – Use a stability cushion, balance board, or simply stand on one leg while holding onto a sturdy surface to improve balance and reduce fall risk.
How to Fit It In
We know life gets busy, but a little movement every day makes a big difference! Here are some simple ways to stay on track:
✅ Set a goal: Plan for 30 minutes of movement on most days (this can be split into smaller sessions).
✅ Make it social: Walk with a friend, join a walking group, or dance with family members.
✅ Link it to a routine: Stretch while watching TV, march in place while brushing your teeth, or do exercises after your morning coffee.
✅ Keep it fun: Choose activities you enjoy—if it feels like a chore, it’s harder to stick with!
Keep Moving, Keep Thriving
Attending our Parkinson’s exercise classes is a fantastic step toward improving your health, but to truly maximise the benefits, make sure you’re moving throughout the week too!
Need help creating a personalised home exercise plan? Ask us at your next class—we’re here to help!
