Cycling might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of managing a progressive brain disorder like Parkinson’s disease. But growing research, and real-world results, are proving otherwise. Beyond medication and surgery, staying physically active has shown to contribute positively to your health.
Not only does it prevent many ailments, it also helps to treat disorders and conditions. Research suggests that physical activity is effective in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Among various forms of exercise, neurologists suggests that cycling has the ability to help patients maintain mobility, balance, and quality of life.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects nearly 10 million people globally and is marked by tremors, muscle stiffness, balance issues, slow movements, and even cognitive decline, says Dr Santosh N S, Consultant Neurologist at Manipal Hospital Whitefield. “The symptoms worsen with time. While medications and surgical options offer symptom control, they don’t stop disease progression. This is where lifestyle and rehabilitation therapies step in,” he adds.
Also read | Parkinson’s Day 2025: Expert-approved diet guide to keep your brain sharp and healthy
According to Dr Santosh, there’s been a growing emphasis on introducing targeted physical activity in Parkinson’s treatment. “Cycling, in engages multiple motor systems in a repetitive, coordinated way that seems to help rewire the brain’s motor pathways,” he adds.
The cycling connection is said to be first noticed in 2010, when researchers observed that some Parkinson’s patients who could barely walk due to severe gait freezing could still ride a bicycle smoothly. “The finding opened the doors for deeper research. Since then, studies have shown that high-cadence cycling, around 80–90 pedal revolutions per minute, can significantly reduce key PD symptoms like muscle rigidity, tremors, and gait instability. Cycling’s rhythm shows normal walking patterns and improves neuromuscular coordination. It’s not just a physical workout, it’s a neural one. We’ve seen patients show improvements in strength, walking speed, and even balance after just a few weeks of structured cycling therapy,” Dr Santosh says and adds.
Clinical tools such as the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39) and the MDS-Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), he explains, have recorded measurable improvements in motor skills and quality of life in patients following cycling regimens. “Some studies even suggest it may delay motor function decline, giving patients more time with greater independence,” he says.
Also read | World Parkinson’s Day 2025: 13 early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease no one talks about
Dr Santosh shares the benefits of cycling for Parkinson’s patients, and also suggests tips on how to cycle safely:
- Improves gait and balance: Cycling helps regulate step length, cadence, and walking speed, all of which improve stability and reduce fall risk.
- Boosts strength: Performance in the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) improves after regular cycling sessions.
- Improves motor coordination: The repetitive motion helps “retrain” brain circuits involved in movement.
- Increases quality of life: Patients report better mobility and reduced stiffness, as well as mental health benefits.
- May slow progression: While it’s not a cure, cycling may act as a disease-modifying strategy when combined with medical treatment.
- Start slow: Begin with short, low-resistance rides and build up gradually.
- Maintain high cadence: Aim for 80–90 RPM to gain maximum neurological benefits.
- Stay consistent: Three sessions per week over eight weeks has shown up to 35 percent symptom improvement.
- Use stationary bikes if needed: Upright or recumbent stationary bikes are ideal for those with balance issues.
- Get medical clearance: Always consult your neurologist or physiotherapist before beginning any new exercise routine.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!