Washington, July 3 (IANS): Walking regularly improves the mood, fitness and ability to think in people suffering from Parkinson's disease.
"The results of our study suggest that walking may provide a safe and easily accessible way of improving the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and improve quality of life," said study author Ergun Uc from University of Iowa in the US.
The study was based on data from 60 people who participated in moderate activity sessions while wearing a heart rate monitor.
By walking briskly three times a week for 45 minutes, the patients improved their motor function and mood, increased their attention span and aerobic fitness, the findings showed.
"People with mild-moderate Parkinson's who do not have dementia and are able to walk independently without a cane or walker can safely follow the recommended exercise guidelines for healthy adults, which includes 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity aerobic activity, and experience benefits," Uc added.
The study was published online in the journal Neurology.