Neil Sligar talks about his Parkinson's Disease & Vigorous Exercise

Neil Sligar was diagnosed with Parkinson's over a decade ago. His specialist told him to expect a full time carer and wheelchair within a few years. Neil commenced a vigorous exercise routine in January 2000 (including heavy weights). He has not accepted medical advice that he should take it easy - and is still at work and an active member of the community. Neil is interviewed by Captain Pat from c91.3 at his local gym Aquafit. See also : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_-nRQmO8ko

Category:

People & Blogs

Tags:

• parkinsons
• disease
• neil
• sligar
• captain
• pat
• campbelltown
• australia
• nsw
• aquafit
• exercise
• weights
• vigorous

[Joanne111909]

Hi Neil,

Yesterday was my lucky day! I found you on youtube through Kate Katsell's blog. Today I jogged for the first time in more than 20 years and it felt great. I also mixed the jogging with walking and then attended my weight training class. I was diagnosed with PD one year ago Friday. Tried Sinemet but it didn't improve my two main complaints bad handwriting and speech problems. I am now taking .75 mg of ReQuip there times a day but only can report very mild improvement. Thanks so much!

[captainpat]

Respond to this video... Hi Joanne, thanks for your comments which I will pass on to Neil. But, as Neil says always consult with your doctor or specialist to make sure they are aware of what you are doing.

[MrBach21]

Dan

Brilliant artistry.

Am overwhelmed at your skill in conveying feelings. My deepest thanks and best wishes for your journey with Parkinson's.

Neil

[danstune]

I can relate to your situation. I am sending you an original song called, Parkinson's Blues! Thanks for sharing your story.

[Joanne111909]

@Joanne111909 Hi Neil, Thank you for your reply. Australia is one of my favorite places and we have good friends in Cronulla so maybe we'll meet one day. I'll keep you posted on the jogging and weight lifting. I have scheduled a couple of sessions with a trainer just to get me jump-started and they use treadmills and spinning bikes for the cardio training. I'm off to the YMCA for a Zumba session this morning. It's Cardio combined with Latin Dancing and lots of fun.Take care, Joanne

[MrBach21]

@Joanne111909

Hello Joanne

Please pardon my delay in responding to your kind message.

YouTube is certainly a way of learning how other people with PD are coping, isn't it?

I'm a fan of Kate Kelsall's blog but hadn't noticed my video there.

You will find two of my contributions on Kate's site, one in January 2010 and another in 2007.

I have difficulty running but seem unimpeded on bike or indoor rower. Enjoy weights.

Meds are Sinemet, Stalevo, Pramipexole

Best wishes, Neil

[ThatReferralGuy]

You are an inspiration to me Neil, keep up the great work. I am blest to have you in my life. Glenn