Large-amplitude movement
Practising bigger, more deliberate movements to address reduced movement size and encourage more effective movement.
PD Warrior® Program in Atherton, QLD
PD Warrior®
The PD Warrior® program is a specialised exercise program designed for people living with Parkinson’s disease. It uses targeted, high-intensity exercise and movement strategies to address the physical challenges associated with Parkinson’s and help maintain functional ability.
An evidence-based exercise program for people with Parkinson's disease
A 2024 pilot study of the 10-week PD Warrior® program found improvements in motor function, walking capacity and walking while performing another task, with additional improvements in aspects of emotional wellbeing.
These findings are encouraging, although further research is needed to establish the program’s longer-term effects.
The focus of the program is to help you maintain and develop the movement skills, strength, balance and fitness needed for everyday function, while providing practical strategies to manage the physical challenges of Parkinson’s disease.
Exercises are progressed and modified according to your individual presentation, allowing the program to remain challenging while being appropriate for your current abilities and goals.
The program focuses on
PD Warrior® is not simply about general fitness.
It uses targeted exercise and movement practice to address the specific physical and functional challenges associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Strength and power
Developing the strength and power needed for functional activities such as standing, stepping, reaching and changing position.
Balance and postural control
Challenging stability, weight shifting and balance reactions to support safer, more controlled movement.
Stepping, agility and turning
Practising stepping strategies, changes of direction and turning to address challenges with mobility and movement.
Trunk rotation and whole-body movement
Encouraging coordinated movement through the trunk and limbs to support more fluid and functional movement.
Coordination and timing
Developing the control, timing and sequencing needed for purposeful movement.
Dual-tasking
Combining physical movement with cognitive tasks to challenge the ability to move while thinking, as required in everyday situations.
Cardiovascular fitness
Building exercise capacity and endurance to support ongoing physical activity and participation.
Meet the team
Anita Curcio
Fitness Instructor
Erin Schwenke
Exercise Physiologist
Kathryn Morphy
Accredited Exercise Physiologist
Leah MacCallum
Fitness Instructor
Nash Coghlan
Fitness Instructor
Carla Barletta
Exercise Physiologist
Katie Markham
Exercise Physiologist
Lara MacCallum
Pilates Instructor
Judy Vermeer
Receptionist
Christine McClarty
Receptionist
Zoe Dodgson
Accredited Exercise Physiologist
Bella Diggins
Fitness Instructor
Natalie Parkinson
Receptionist
Alex Nasser
Fitness Instructor
Brianna Haydon
Exercise Physiologist
