High satisfaction and improved quality of life with Rock Steady Boxing in Parkinson's disease: results of a large-scale survey.
Danielle Larson, Chen Yeh, Miriam Rafferty...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34498995Actively Recruiting
Led by University of Texas, El Paso · Updated on 2026-05-08
45
Participants Needed
2
Research Sites
4 weeks
Total Duration
Researchers are investigating how different structured exercise programs impact movement, fitness, and overall health in adults with Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a progressive condition affecting movement, balance, and quality of life. This study aims to compare various exercise types to see which best improve motor function, endurance, and physiological health markers in people living with Parkinson's disease. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three exercise groups: guided cycling, non-contact boxing, or traditional physical therapy. Each group will participate in supervised exercise sessions twice a week for eight weeks. The cycling group uses stationary bikes with intensity based on individual fitness testing. The boxing group engages in rhythmical, task-specific boxing movements and agility drills. The physical therapy group follows standard rehabilitation exercises including aerobic, balance, and strength training. All sessions include warm-up, exercise, and cool-down, and are led by licensed physical therapists. During the study, movement, balance, walking speed, and quality of life will be assessed at the start, after eight weeks of exercise, and again after a four-week rest period. Blood samples will be taken at these times to analyze markers of cardiovascular health and inflammation. Exercise intensity and safety will be monitored throughout. The total participation lasts about 15 weeks, allowing researchers to understand both immediate and lasting effects of the exercise programs.
CONDITIONS
Changes in Movement, Fitness, and Quality of Life in People With Parkinson's Disease After Different Exercise Programs
You may qualify if you...
You will not qualify if you...
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 1 week
Participants complete baseline testing to assess motor function, cardiorespiratory fitness, and quality of life before starting the exercise program.
1 baseline visit (in-person)
Duration - 8 weeks
Participants engage in supervised exercise sessions twice weekly for eight weeks, including guided cycling, non-contact boxing, or traditional physical therapy, depending on their assigned group. Each session lasts about 60 minutes and includes warm-up, exercise activities, and cool-down under therapist supervision.
Twice weekly sessions for 8 weeks (approximately 16 sessions)
Duration - 1 week
Participants undergo testing immediately after completing the exercise program to evaluate changes in motor function, fitness, and quality of life.
1 post-intervention visit (in-person)
Duration - 4 weeks
Participants have a four-week rest period without structured exercise to assess short-term retention of exercise-related adaptations.
No scheduled visits
Duration - 1 week
Participants complete final assessments to evaluate lasting effects of the exercise interventions after the rest period.
1 follow-up visit (in-person)
Total: 2 locations
1
University of Texas at El Paso Doctor of Physical Therapy and Movement Sciences Building
El Paso, Texas, United States, 79902
Actively Recruiting
2
Move Therapy Services
El Paso, Texas, United States, 79935
Actively Recruiting
K
Katherine M Reyes-Brooks, PT, DPT
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
3
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