RecruitingInterventional

Power-PD: Empowering people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) through flexible exercise

Parkinson’s disease affects the nervous system, leading to tremors, muscle stiffness, and trouble with walking or balance. Staying active can make a big difference to everyday health, but finding regular, convenient classes can be difficult. The Power-PD study, led by University College London, tests a new 12-week exercise and support programme. What makes it unique is flexibility: participants can choose every week whether to attend classes in person or join from home using video calls (Zoom). Each weekly session includes a 45-to-60-minute circuit workout made especially for Parkinson's, followed by friendly group discussions to share tips and encouragement. Researchers want to find out whether this flexible setup helps people build lasting exercise habits and could be used by the NHS in the future. To join, you must have Parkinson's, be on stable medication, and be able to walk indoors without a walking frame or stick.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University College London

Enrolment target

Start

01 Aug 2026

Estimated completion

31 Mar 2027

Parkinson’s Disease

What is this study about?

Parkinson’s disease is a condition that affects how the brain coordinates body movements. Common symptoms include shaking, stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance problems. Exercise is known to be one of the best ways to keep muscles strong, improve mobility, and boost wellbeing. Even so, many people living with Parkinson's find it hard to exercise regularly. Travelling to classes can be tiring, and while exercising at home on a screen is convenient, it can feel lonely.

The Power-PD study is exploring a middle ground known as 'hybrid' exercise. Instead of having to commit strictly to an online group or a physical gym class, participants can choose which format fits them best each week. If you feel up to travelling, you can meet with the group in person. If you are having an off day or bad weather makes travel hard, you can join the same group live via Zoom from the comfort of your living room.

This study is being run by University College London and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research. By testing how well this flexible programme works and whether people enjoy taking part, the researchers hope to show how the NHS could provide better, more practical exercise support for people with Parkinson’s in the future.

Key takeaways

A 12-week exercise and support programme designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s.
Offers weekly choice to attend in person or join live online from home via Zoom.
Includes 45-to-60-minute tailored workouts, group chats, and practical tips to stay active.
Aimed at people who can walk safely indoors without a walking stick or frame.
Funded by the NIHR and run by University College London to help improve future NHS care.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to adults aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. To make sure the exercise is safe for you, your Parkinson's medication must have stayed at the same dose for at least the past three weeks. You also need to be able to walk safely on your own indoors without using a stick or walking frame, though using a walking aid when outside is completely fine.

You might not be able to take part if you have other significant health issues that make intensive exercise unsafe, such as serious heart problems, severe lung conditions, uncontrolled diabetes, or disabling joint pain. People who experience sudden, unpredictable changes in their ability to move ('on-off' fluctuations) are also not eligible.

Finally, because the study aims to test a new approach for people who need help getting active, you cannot take part if you have joined another Parkinson's-specific exercise programme within the past 12 months. You must also be able to speak and understand English well enough to follow safety instructions and join in group discussions.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I am 18 years of age or older.
I have a formal diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.
My Parkinson’s medication has been steady and unchanged for at least 3 weeks.
I can walk safely on my own indoors without using a stick or walking frame.
I have not attended a Parkinson's-specific exercise class in the last 12 months.
I can understand and speak English well enough to follow class instructions.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part, you will join a weekly group session for 12 weeks. Each session has two parts: a 45-to-60-minute exercise circuit tailored to Parkinson's, followed by a relaxed group discussion where you and other participants talk about living with the condition and sharing useful self-care tips. You will also get advice on simple ways to stay active during the rest of the week. Before the programme starts and after the 12 weeks finish, researchers will check your fitness and mobility to see how you have got on. You do not need to change your usual medications, and the overall study commitment lasts around 14 to 16 weeks including the assessments.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part offers the chance to join a safe, guided workout and connect with others living with Parkinson's in your area, while helping researchers shape future NHS services. The physical risks are low, though you may feel some temporary muscle soreness or tiredness after exercising, just as you would with any new workout. Talking about personal challenges during group chats can sometimes feel emotional, but sessions are led by experienced clinicians who provide a caring, supportive space. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you are free to stop at any time without it affecting your regular NHS medical care.

Locations (3)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust
City only
London, England
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
City only
London, England
University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
City only
London, England

Common questions

Do I have to pay to take part in this study?

No, taking part in the Power-PD study is completely free.

Can I switch between online and in-person sessions?

Yes. You have the flexibility to decide each week whether you want to travel to the class or join from home via Zoom.

Do I need any special equipment to join from home?

You will only need an internet connection and a device that runs Zoom, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Will my regular Parkinson’s treatment change?

No, your usual medical care and medication will continue as normal throughout the study.

What happens if I miss a week?

If you feel unwell or cannot attend, you simply let the team know. You will not be penalised for missing a session.

How to find out more

James Alexander

james.alexander@ucl.ac.uk +44 207 794055 ext.034374 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.