RecruitingInterventional

High-intensity functional training in Parkinson's disease

This study is investigating a specific type of exercise called High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson's affects movement and can cause symptoms like stiffness, tiredness, and balance issues. While exercise is known to help, it's not clear which types are best. HIFT combines various exercises done at a high level to boost strength, heart health, and balance. The main aim of this research is to find out if HIFT, offered through local gyms or specialist Parkinson's programmes, is practical, enjoyable, and safe for people with Parkinson's. We also want to understand people's experiences with HIFT to decide if a larger study is needed to see if it can improve Parkinson's symptoms. This study does not provide medical recommendations.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Bristol

Enrolment target

Start

16 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2026

Parkinson's disease

What is this study about?

Parkinson's disease is a condition that gradually affects movement and other parts of the body. There's no cure at the moment, and common symptoms include feeling tired, changes in mood, balance problems, and stiffness, which can be very challenging. We know that exercise can help slow down the disease's progress and manage these symptoms. However, doctors and researchers are still trying to figure out which types and how much exercise are best for people with Parkinson's.

This study focuses on a specific kind of exercise called High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT). HIFT involves different exercises done with a lot of effort, aiming to improve things like muscle strength, heart fitness, and balance. The researchers want to see if offering HIFT through existing services, like local gyms or specialised Parkinson's programmes (not NHS services), is something people with Parkinson's can realistically do, find enjoyable, and do safely. We're also keen to understand how different people, regardless of their background, feel about HIFT.

The information gathered from this project will be really important. It will help the research team decide if they should move forward with a bigger study in the future. That larger study would aim to see if HIFT can truly help improve the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. This current study is a first step to understand if it's a good idea to explore HIFT further.

Key takeaways

This study explores a type of exercise called HIFT for Parkinson's disease.
It aims to see if HIFT is practical, enjoyable, and safe for people with Parkinson's.
Participants will either get HIFT classes or continue their usual activities.
Your medical team must agree you are fit for this type of exercise.
The findings will help decide if a larger study on HIFT is needed.
Participation might not benefit you directly but helps future research.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be over 18 years old and have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease where the cause isn't known (idiopathic Parkinson's). You must be able to understand the study and agree to take part, and be able to walk at least 10 metres on your own, even if you use a walking aid. Your Parkinson's medication should have been stable for the past six weeks, and your doctor must agree that you are fit enough to exercise.

You won't be able to join if you've had more than 3 falls in the last year, or if you have severe balance problems, or issues with thinking and memory that affect your daily life. Also, if your Parkinson's symptoms suddenly change a lot (like 'freezing' when you try to walk, or big changes in your movement throughout the day), or if you are considering or have recently had certain types of treatments like Deep Brain Stimulation or infusion therapy, you might not be eligible. The study also cannot include people who already exercise regularly at a similar high intensity.

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.

Are you 18 years or older?
Do you have a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease?
Can you walk at least 10 metres on your own (with or without a walking aid)?
Has your Parkinson's medication been stable for the last 6 weeks?
Has your doctor said you are medically fit to take part in exercise?
Have you had fewer than 3 falls in the last year?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you'll be placed into one of two groups by chance. One group will continue with their usual daily activities. The other group will take part in High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) classes. These classes will be at a local CrossFit gym or through a special programme called PD Warrior, which is designed for Parkinson's, and you can attend them in person or online. The research team will pay for these classes.

If you're in the HIFT group, you'll be asked to attend classes at least twice a week for 12 weeks. Before, during, and after this exercise period, the researchers will carry out assessments to see how you're doing. Some participants will also be invited for an interview to share their experiences of taking part in the study. The total duration of your active participation, including assessments and the exercise program, will be about 12 weeks, plus initial checks and final follow-up.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study might not directly help you right away. However, the information gathered will be extremely valuable for future research and could help many other people with Parkinson's down the line by showing us if HIFT is a good exercise option. If you're in the exercise group, the classes could benefit your general health and possibly your Parkinson's symptoms, and the research team will cover the cost of classes plus travel if needed. There are some possible risks: you might feel some muscle soreness or stiffness when you start exercising, and you could experience temporary tiredness, worsening of existing pain, or changes in your Parkinson's symptoms, which should usually get better within 1 to 3 days. There's also a small chance that exercise could lead to a fall or put strain on your heart, potentially revealing or worsening heart issues. The research team will work closely with your GP and Parkinson's specialist to carefully check your health and try to reduce these risks. If you exercise at home, it's recommended to have someone with you for safety. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

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

NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Icb
City only
Bristol, England

Common questions

What is Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's is a condition that affects movement and other body systems, causing symptoms like stiffness, balance problems, and fatigue.

What is High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT)?

HIFT is a type of exercise that combines various movements done with high effort to improve strength, heart health, and balance.

Will I have to pay to join the study?

No, if you're in the exercise group, the research team will pay for your classes, and they can also help with travel costs if needed.

How long will I be involved in the study?

If you're in the exercise group, you'll attend classes for 12 weeks, plus time for assessments before, during, and after.

Who is running this study?

The study is being run by the University of Bristol and funded by the National Institute for Health and Social Care Research (NIHR).

How to find out more

Dani Pendry-Brazier

liftpd-study@bristol.ac.uk +44 (0)1174551219 Official trial record

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