Berkshire Parkinson’s Support Group April 2, 2026 Meeting Summary
Today we focused on the importance of physical exercise in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s and even in slowing the progression of the disease.
Intro: Lis and I spent the month of February in Tucson, Arizona. Her movement disorder specialist, Dr. Ben Dorfman, had referred her to the physical therapy and exercise program offered there at the PWR!Gym (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery) center. We participated in multiple sessions each week. It was rigorous. Lis learned her specialized exercises, and I learned how to be her coach. We participated in three sessions with Dr. Becky Farley, the developer of the internationally used PWR!Moves. Most importantly, our training at the PWR!Gym was guided by a doctoral-level prepared physical therapist, Wesley Lanier. Our valuable experience at the PWR!Gym, a nonprofit organization, was entirely funded by Medicare and our supplemental BCBS insurance. Upon returning home, Lis is continuing her daily PWR routine, supplemented by twice-weekly participation in Tricia Wyatt’s exercise program. We found that this is an ideal combination for us.
We were excited that Wes Lanier accepted our invitation to speak with our group today, followed by our ‘own’ local physical therapist and exercise coach, Tricia Wyatt. During our meeting, we experienced Wes’ knowledge, dedication, and enthusiasm. Equally enthusiastic, Tricia spoke with us about her current exercise program in which 10 members participate. (She will be our featured speaker at our May meeting.) You can see Wes’ bio along with other PWR!Gym staff here: https://www.pwr4life.org/about/staff/
Summary: Today’s presentation by Wesley Lanier focused on the critical role of exercise in managing Parkinson’s disease (PD). The attached slides highlight that exercise is an evidence-based intervention beneficial across all stages of PD, aiding in symptom management, potentially slowing disease progression, and promoting neuroplasticity. Wes' presentation emphasized that exercise is not merely therapeutic but is one of the most powerful tools available for individuals with Parkinson’s to combat the disease.
The slides outline what constitutes PD-specific exercise, which includes large amplitude movements that retrain the brain to move the body more effectively. These exercises aim to improve motor skills that typically deteriorate in people with PD, targeting areas such as posture, weight shift, and trunk rotation. Wes’ recommendations for a comprehensive weekly exercise plan included aerobic activities, strength training, stretching, and balance exercises, with a focus on consistency and challenging oneself to drive change.
Additionally, the presentation underlined the significant role of caregivers in supporting individuals with Parkinson’s. Caregivers provide motivation, safety, emotional support, and help establish routines that promote regular exercise. The session concluded with an overview of Parkinson Wellness Recovery (PWR!Gym), a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing access to research-driven exercise programs that improve quality of life for individuals with PD. The PWR!Gym offers various services, including skilled therapy, exercise classes, and community engagement opportunities.
Here are his slides:
