Barre Exercise in Parkinson's

The primary objectives of this study are to: 1) evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a barre exercise intervention and 2) gather preliminary data regarding the effect of a barre exercise intervention on balance, strength, functional mobility and quality of life in individuals with mild to moderate Parkinson disease (PD). Individuals with PD (N=15) will be recruited to participate in a pilot barre exercise class led by a certified barre instructor. The intervention will include 24, 45-50 minute group classes (twice weekly for 12 weeks, excluding holidays). Pre- and post-intervention data collection will include assessments of balance, lower extremity strength, and functional mobility.

Inclusion criteria

• diagnosed by a neurologist with idiopathic Parkinson disease
• at least 18 years of age
• a score on the Hoehn & Yahr (H&Y) scale between I-III to indicate mild to moderate disease severity
• able to provide informed consent
• able to walk for 10 continuous minutes without assistance from another person
• stable medication regimen for at least one month prior to enrollment

Exclusion criteria

• any neurological condition other than PD
• history of orthopedic or other medical conditions that limit the ability to safely participate in the intervention or
• language, visual, or hearing barriers to participation
• evidence of dementia (Montreal Cognitive Assessment < 24) to ensure understanding of the intervention class instructions