To evaluate feasibility of a community-based karate class tailored for individuals with early- to middle-stage Parkinson’s Disease (PD); to assess effect of karate on objective and patient-reported outcomes.  

Different exercise modalities benefit PD patients. The karate program evaluated here incorporates vigorous resistance and aerobic activity with mindfulness in a community-based class of mild to moderate PD subjects.

We enrolled 19 participants; 15 completed all ten weeks of classes (79%), with mean adherence of 87% among completers. Reasons for withdrawal: scheduling conflicts, no given reason, pre-existing sciatica, and appendicitis. Among those completing the study, 53% were women, median age 68 (range 39-80), PD duration of 6 years (range 2-20), and 93% were HY 2. We found significant improvements in quality of life (PDQ-8: 25.3 vs. 19.3, p = 0.01), and gait (Tinetti Mobility Test: 27.1 vs. 27.9 points, p = 0.01), and a trend toward improvement in mobility (Timed Up and Go: 9.6 vs. 9.0 seconds, p = 0.1). On the PGIC, 87% endorsed feeling moderately or considerably better. All met their self-defined pre-intervention goal, planned to continue karate, and would recommend it to a friend, respectively.

A twice-weekly karate class was met with high adherence and enthusiasm among people with early- to middle-stage PD. After ten weeks of participation, significant improvements were noted in gait, quality of life, and self-reported impression of change. Karate for PD is a promising intervention with potential to impact quality of life and mobility.