Move Big, Live Better: How PWR! Moves® Help with Parkinson’s

Live BIG with PWR! Moves®

If you’re living with Parkinson’s disease, you’ve probably heard that exercise is medicine. And it’s true—staying active can make a huge difference in your strength, balance, and confidence. One program designed just for people with Parkinson’s is called PWR! Moves® (short for Parkinson Wellness Recovery), and it’s all about using big, purposeful movements to help you move and feel your best.

What Are PWR! Moves®?

PWR! Moves® are simple, whole-body exercises that were created by a physical therapist who specializes in Parkinson’s. They’re designed to help you move with more power, flexibility, and control—so everyday things like walking, getting dressed, or rolling over in bed feel easier.

The best part? They can be adapted for anyone, whether you’re just starting out, use a walker, or are already very active.

The Four Core PWR! Moves®

Each move can be done sitting, standing, or even on the floor. Here’s what they focus on:

1. PWR! UP – Helps you stand tall and fight that forward-stooped posture.

2. PWR! ROCK – Gets your body shifting side-to-side, which improves balance and makes walking smoother.

3. PWR! TWIST – Adds in trunk rotation to loosen stiffness and make turning or reaching easier.

4. PWR! STEP – Focuses on taking big steps in different directions to fight freezing and improve mobility.

These moves aren’t random exercises—they’re meant to mimic the movements you need in daily life.

Why They’re Helpful

Parkinson’s can cause movements to become smaller, slower, and stiffer. PWR! Moves® are designed to retrain your body and brain to move big and strong again. Practicing them regularly can help with:

• Stiffness and rigidity

• Balance and confidence

• Freezing episodes

• Everyday activities like getting out of a chair or walking through a doorway

  
  

How to Get Started

• Work with a PWR! Moves® therapist: Find a physical therapist here: https://www.pwr4life.org/professional-directory/

• Join a group class: These can be fun, social, and motivating.

• Practice at home: Once you’ve learned the moves, you can use them throughout your day. For example, stand tall with a PWR! UP when you get out of a chair, or take a PWR! STEP when walking through tight spaces.

• Function Forward Physical Therapy has been offering PWR! Moves training since 2021. PWR! Moves can be taught either in person or virtually (to MO or KS residents), and is typically covered by traditional medicare.

The Bottom Line

Parkinson’s may change the way you move, but it doesn’t have to take away your independence. PWR! Moves® give you simple, powerful tools to stay active, strong, and confident—one big move at a time.