Effects of dance for Parkinson’s disease on habitual physical activity: a quasi-experimental controlled study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Background: Despite symptomatic therapies for PD, habitual physical activity inevitably declines as the disease progresses, leading to increased sedentary behavior. While dance programs have demonstrated a multitude of benefits including motor, non-motor, and psychological aspects, it has not yet been objectively determined if dance can improve habitual physical activity in people living with PD. Aim: This study explored whether participation in Dance for Parkinson's Disease classes was associated with changes in habitual physical activity in people with PD. Design: A quasi-experimental controlled efficacy study, with pre and post-testing of two parallel groups (dance versus control). Population: = 16; age = 67.0 ± 7.7 years). Participants were cognitively intact (Addenbrooke's score: DG = 93.2 ± 3.6, CG = 92.6 ± 4.3) and in early stage PD (Hoehn & Yahr: DG = 1.6 ± 0.7, CG = 1.5 ± 0.8). Methods: The DG undertook a one-hour Dance for Parkinson's Disease (DfPD®) -based class, twice weekly for 12 weeks (intervention). The CG had treatment as usual. ActivPAL™ accelerometers monitored habitual physical activity for five consecutive days pre-and post-intervention. Sit/lie duration (min), standing duration (min), stepping duration (min), sit/stand movements (count), stand/sit movements (count), daily step count, and energy expenditure (MET-h/day) were measured. Results: = 0.91, respectively). Conclusion: Participation in a dance for Parkinson's disease program did not significantly alter pre- to post-program habitual physical activity. Larger adequately powered trials are required to determine whether participation in dance programs can influence habitual physical activity in people with Parkinson's disease.
Source: Frontiers in Human Neuroscience
Language: English
Subfield: Visual Arts and Performing Arts
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W7221625717