As part of my New Year’s resolutions for 2024, one goal stood out above the rest: creating a dedicated space in my home for what I call “targeted exercises.”
I already knew regular exercise was beneficial for managing Parkinson’s Disease, but I kept asking myself: What if I focused only on activities proven to ease PD symptoms? Would that make a bigger difference? This became my experiment, my challenge for the year.
After some research, I decided my targeted exercises would be boxing, ping pong, and dancing. Each has evidence suggesting it can help improve balance, coordination, and mobility for people with Parkinson’s.
How I Built My At-Home Parkinson’s Exercise Zone
Once I had my plan, the next step was creating a space that felt inviting and practical. I chose a section of my garage to transform.
I started by tarping off an area so it would stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Then I slowly gathered what I needed:
- I hung up a heavy bag and speed bag for boxing workouts.
- I cut a sheet of plywood in half to make my own ping pong table.
- My mom sent me her old Nintendo Wii so I could play Just Dance as part of my movement routine.
- Finally, I installed sunlight LED bulbs to give the space a brighter, friendlier feel—lighting really matters when you’re trying to stay motivated!
It didn’t happen overnight, but step by step, my garage began to feel like a small personal gym built around my needs.
My Progress So Far
I’ve been using this setup regularly, and honestly, I’m starting to notice a difference. Not just physically but mentally too. Having a dedicated, welcoming space keeps me consistent, and the targeted exercises feel purposeful instead of random.
I’ll keep sharing updates as I go along. If you’ve been thinking of creating your own space for exercise—big or small—I can tell you it’s worth it.
Amazon Links
Here are the items I’ve been using (these are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them):
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Support My Journey
If you’ve found my content helpful or inspiring, you can support me at Ko-fi. Your support helps me keep sharing tips, stories, and resources for people living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.
A Note from Me
I’m sharing my personal journey—not as a medical professional, but as someone living with Parkinson’s who is trying to make life a little better, one experiment at a time. My hope is that by sharing what’s working for me, others might find ideas they can adapt for their own lives.
Caregiver’s Corner
If you’re a caregiver, you play such a vital role. Simple support—like helping create a small exercise space at home—can make a world of difference for someone with Parkinson’s. Thank you for everything you do.
Disclaimer
I am not a medical professional. This post reflects my personal experiences with Parkinson’s Disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or therapy.
