A local gym has been raising awareness about Parkinson’s this week; encouraging people to wear blue to exercise classes and on World Parkinson’s Day tomorrow.

NRG Alexandra personal trainer Teresa Noble said the number of people suffering from Parkinson's is due to increase dramatically but the future was “tough but positive”, with a huge amount of research happening. 

“It’s not [just] a disease that affects just older people, and exercising is essential.

“Exercise is medicine for Parkinson’s and it’s something I’m so passionate about.”

Teresa said participants in the Perky Parkies class were “seriously impressive” carrying out kettle bell swings and doing cardio on the ski-erg machine.

Two of the group were retired farmers, and Mervyn Kinaston and wife Helen were ’the originals’, and had been doing the class for more than two years. They have been married for 60 years today (10 April). 

Neil King said he valued the camaraderie of the class.

“The group all have something in common. If I shake, I shake, they all understand.”

“Having Parkinson’s is the reality for us and here you’re not on your own… we can be a boost for one another.”

Neil added they had a sense of humour and quipped “we keep it on the level.”

Helen said no one asked for Parkinson’s and it was just something that happens and people had to fight it and keep moving in whatever way they could.

The group said they were open minded to trying new things when working out and being together was important.

“You’re not on your own [with Parkinson’s] help and support is in the community, so there should be no hibernation, don’t be isolated,” Neil said.

Symptoms they found challenging were their facial expressions being impacted, difficulty sleeping, and easily losing their balance.

Helen said having even footing was key and all the rugs and carpets needed to be one level at home to prevent trips. 

The theme of the international awareness day is #SparktheNight with more than 440 buildings and global landmarks shining blue in solidarity with the 11.8million people who are living with the condition.

They include the New York Stock Exchange, Piccadilly Circus, Niagara Falls, the Australian Royal Mint and closer to home the Otago Railway Station Clock and the Cromwell sign.

In New Zealand, thousands of people are physically and mentally affected by Parkinson’s, a progressive neurological condition.

According to Parkinson New Zealand, there are 13,000 people in New Zealand who are currently living with Parkinson’s. This number is expected to double within the next 20 years.

It becomes more common with older age groups, and it is believed 1 per cent of people above the age of 60 have Parkinson’s. The average age at diagnosis is 59.

While the condition cannot be cured, symptoms can be managed through different methods, including physical therapy.

Young people can develop Parkinson's, with about 10 to 20 per cent of people experiencing symptoms before they turn 50. This is called "young onset," and while treatments are similar, the disease may affect younger people differently.

Tremors and other motor symptoms are well-known, many other symptoms, such as depression and loss of speech, sleep and gut issues are hidden and can impact quality of life.

To find out more about the Perky Parkies class, on Wednesdays at 12-1pm, contact [email protected] 

April has been World Parkinson’s Month to raise awareness, support those affected and push for a cure. 

Patient led organisation PD Avengers has been uniting people to try to end Parkinson’s with actions throughout the month, as has not for profit Parkinson’s New Zealand.

Find out more about Parkinson’s New Zealand here

Visit the World Parkinson’s Day website

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