How walking poles can benefit those of us with Parkinson’s disease
I may have found the perfect exercise
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For me, having goals is very important. For instance, in the 5K race that I ran last weekend, my goal was to smile for the last 100 meters or so, because that is when they snap a photo of you. Does it matter that I came in 1,153rd? No, it does not, because I had a smile on my face and the photo to prove it!
About four months ago, someone sent me a social media post about a Parkinson’s walking group. This group looked like a happening place; they used walking poles, had a walking coach, and were enjoying all the benefits of walking, getting outside, and camaraderie. I instantly wanted to be a part of it, but it was somewhere in the U.S., so this Canadian gal needed a local solution.
The more I read about pole walking, the more I wanted to be part of a similar group. The benefits are innumerable for people with Parkinson’s. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, using poles can promote larger, more symmetrical movements, improve balance, correct posture, and increase stride length, ultimately helping to reduce the shuffling gait common in those with the condition.
Not only are the physical benefits of pole walking astounding, but the psychological benefits are fantastic as well. Increased confidence, improved mood, and social connection are all on the table. It seems like the perfect exercise routine.
The only solution that seemed obvious to me was to start my own group. After some discussion and a heaping helping of patience on my part, I finally met with the powers that be at our local Parkinson Society. I had a proposal ready. One of our boxing coaches agreed to coach the walking group, and the society generously covered the associated costs, secured a few sets of poles, promoted it, and essentially took it over. I don’t have to do anything but show up!
We plan to meet for a walk once a week on Thursday mornings until September, when we have our big Walk for Parkinson’s fundraiser. This clear schedule helps keep everyone committed and aware of upcoming opportunities to participate.
We plan to build our skills and resilience every week, with our ultimate goal being to walk 5 km (3.1 miles).
Seeing this program come to life has given me a deep sense of fulfillment. I look forward to each session, feeling proud to contribute to my community and support others.
Note: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson’s News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.
Robin L
Can you recommend a kind or brand of walking poles? Is it the same as hiking poles or different? Thanks.
Christine Scheer
Hi,
the poles are “activator” poles. They are the ones recommended for people with Parkinson’s disease.
Thanks for reading!
Christine
Michael Antin
I have been using poles for a couple of years now. As a Parkinson’s focus exercise I find it incredibly beneficial as you have identified. It helps me reach my goal of one mile typically walking alone. The only thing I would know on the downside is a concern from my neurologist. I have a sense of Security with chronic back pain. I’m hunched over quite a bit even with the holes I have to rest between laps. I’m lucky enough to find a bench to sit down and take the load off my back for a few minutes and then get back up quickly thanks to the poles
Christine Scheer
Hi Michael,
Great to hear that you are enjoying the benefits of the walking poles!
Thanks for sharing,
Christine
Ronald Stauffer
What is a walking pole. You don't picture one in your article. Is like a hiking stick?
I have graduated from THINK LOUD program, a Parkinsons therapy to improve walking and voice. That therapy has helped my walking tremendously.
Christine Scheer
Hi Ronald,
Yes, it is like a hiking poles, but it doesn’t have straps around your hands and the bottom of the poles have a rubber ‘ bell’ on them. I’m pretty sure if you google ‘activator poles’ you’ll see what I mean.
Thanks for reading and sharing,
Christine
Sue Johnston
Do you have any particular poles recommendation?
Christine Scheer
Hi Sue,
The brand recommended to me was the activator poles, although you could probably use other poles, as long as they had the bell shaped bottom.
Bonus, because they are considered a walking aid ( like a cane) my insurance covered them.
Take care,
Christine
Sandy Halliday
I enjoyed reading your article. The Naturopath who specializes in Parkinson's we consulted when my hustand was first diagnosed with Parkinson's recommended that he used walking poles. He has always refused to use any sort of walking stick because didn't want to look infirm. But, now 3 years later, since he's been having a special kind of spinal disc decompression therapy for his chronic back pain the chiropractor has highly recommended that he get some walking poles to improve his posture which will help to improve his back pain. He has at last got some but does not find them easy to use. I have found some videos online for instruction but he has yet to watch them. We don't appear to have a walking group near us. Good luck with yours.
Christine Scheer
Hi Sandy,
Yes, I must admit I’ve struggled a bit to get the rhythm right, but I’m stubborn, and will keep at it.. hopefully practice makes it easier.
Take care,
Christine
lee pischedda
I love our group. I was an avid walker and participated in races , half marathons etc. Parkinson's has taken this away from me. I agree that this maybe the perfect exercise and my goal will be to walk 5km again, smiling all the way.
Christine Scheer
Hi Lee!
We’ve got this! We will bring our walking poles to Quebec City in 2029!
Take care,
Christine
Gary Passmore
Hi
Where do purchase the walking pole?
I am from Perth Western Australia
Many thanks
Cheers Gary Passmore