HIGH SPEED CYCLING – PROVING BENEFICIAL
Exercise is already considered to be a vital component of the rehabilitation process for Parkinson’s patients. It is considered to be beneficial in improving walking, balance, muscle strength and the performance of activities of daily living in individuals with PD.
Cycling is a type of aerobic exercise which has always gained popularity due to its various benefits. It is now popular not only in the geriatric crowd but also catching some attention in Parkinson’s patients management. It is well known that cycling has positive effects on cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. But “Does pedalling at a higher speed give better results?”. In the case of Parkinson’s patients it has been found to be an essential element which needs to be focused. “Forced exercise or high cadence cycling is one such form of exercise which is coming into limelight, with its positive impact .“Forced exercise” means moving faster with assistance than is possible on one’s own. Cycling at higher velocity has shown improvements in walking pattern, balance , reduction in bradykinesia,tremors and rigidity, improved brain activation and also improvement in cognitive functioning.
Exercise induced neuroplasticity is the chief factor for having motor, cognitive and behavioral improvements in PD. Neuroplasticity is basically the process of strengthening, repairing , and formation of neuronal connections in an injured/ diseased brain. High Velocity exercises seem to be enhancing neuroplasticity.
According to the research done by Dr. Jay Albert pedalling at 80 rpm was found to be more effective than pedalling at 50 rpm. Originally the studies were performed on a tandem cycle, which seems to be less feasible to practise on a daily basis for Parkinson’s patients. Various motorised stationary bikes are available in the market which can provide a similar effect. Being a sitting assisted exercise it has less chances of injury or fall , less exhausting and more compliant. Duration of 30 minutes for pedalling is suggested at 80 rpm along with 5 minutes warm up in the beginning and 5 minutes cool down at the end . You can always get consent from your physician , a protocol set from your physical therapist and GET STARTED!!!
Study conducted by Dr. Jay Alberts proposed 35% reduction in motor symptoms and also improvement in hand functioning. These figures grabbed attention in Parkinson’s research and many studies were conducted showing some positive outcomes. So you can think of considering high speed cycling as a part of your exercise regime.