Physical Activity and Exercise for People with Parkinson's Disease: The Past, Present, and Future

This invited perspective paper celebrating the 40th anniversary of Movement Disorders demonstrates that the topic of physical activity and exercise as a treatment for Parkinson's disease did not feature before 2002 in this journal. The topic of physical activity and exercise garnered increasing recognition over the next two decades with several important papers published in Movement Disorders. As of 2026, there are four well-recognized treatments for Parkinson's disease: (1) exercise and physical activity; (2) general lifestyle modifications, including avoiding harmful environmental toxins; (3) medication; and (4) surgery and devices. The paper concludes by suggesting a variety of questions, the answers to which will improve clinicians' ability to help patients understand and implement the full Parkinson's exercise prescription.