Research call-out: Gym-based strength training for people with early onset Parkinson’s
Jul. 19, 2024
La Trobe University’s Academic and Research Collaborative in Health is conducting a research project to assess the feasibility of gym-based strength training based on modified powerlifting for people with early onset Parkinson’s disease.
This type of progressive, weight-based strength training focuses on three large, multi-joint exercises used to build muscle strength and coordination: the squat, deadlift and bench press. The project has modified these exercises to ensure safety and allow adequate rest time. All gym sessions are supervised one-to-one by personal trainers who have been educated in safe exercise for people with Parkinson’s disease. The project includes twice-weekly, one-hour exercise sessions for 8 weeks at Aqualink Box Hill (VIC) and an online interview. There is no cost associated with attending the gym. This type of exercise is thought to benefit some adults with early onset Parkinson’s disease through improvement of strength, movement and wellbeing.
The project is looking for 5 more participants to start training at the gym in October 2024. People must be aged under 50 years, diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and cleared by their own medical practitioner to exercise. If you are interested in participating, please email the Project Coordinator c.thwaites@latrobe.edu.au.
This study has ethical approval from La Trobe University (HERC 24036), is registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR 387438) and is funded by a Bethlehem Griffiths Research Foundation Grant (BRGF 2405).