The evidence is growing by leaps and bounds about the beneficial effect exercise has on Parkinson's, according to a pair of recent studies.

In one report discussed during a recent medical conference, researchers tracked the health of some 63,000 men and nearly 80,000 women (average age 63) from 1992-2001. During that period, slightly more than 400 developed Parkinson's. Patients who participated in the highest levels of moderate-to-vigorous exercise lowered their Parkinson's risks by 40 percent. And, patients who exercised more often than folks who didn't reduced their chances of Parkinson's by 20 percent.

In the latter study on animals models, USC researchers learned exercise may enhance the way our bodies use dopamine, forcing the brain to work more efficiently and making the dopamine-producing neurons work harder. Doing both may produce stronger connections to the brain, says the lead researcher.

Just one more reason among many, you must treat exercise like a drug that must be prescribed precisely if you want to achieve the most benefit. To get started in the right direction, please review my beginner's exercise page that includes links to other pages and a free downloadable table to keep track of your progress.