The potential benefits of Zumba Gold® in people with mild-to-moderate Parkinson's: Feasibility and effects of dance styles and number of sessions

- Zumba Gold® is a cheap, safe and enjoyable workout for people with PD.
- Two participants spent more than 75% of the time in the vigorous to maximal HR zone.
- Two participants spent more than 25% of the time in the moderate HR zone.
- Significant decreases in HR were observed when including backwards steps.
- Activity levels increased between the first and last sessions.

ObjectivesTo assess the feasibility of Zumba Gold® in people with PD, and to investigate the effects of dance styles and number of sessions on activity levels and physiological load.DesignRepeated measure uncontrolled (single group) feasibility study.SettingEleven participants (age: 64.0 ± 8.1 years) with mild-to-moderate idiopathic PD (Hoehn & Yahr stage < 3.0) took part in a screening session, followed by six Zumba Gold® workouts each separated by one week, and a follow-up interview six months later.Main outcome measuresThe main feasibility parameters measured were retention, compliance, and adverse events. Furthermore, during each Zumba Gold® session, physical activity levels were measured using tri-axial accelerometers, while physiological load was assessed by average heart rate (HRmean). A two-way ANOVA with repeated measures assessed the effects of dance styles and session number on activity level and HR.Results73% retention and 81% compliance were achieved, and no adverse events were recorded. Participants' enjoyment was high and 38% started Zumba Gold® classes in the community after intervention. HR values were similar between dance styles and within the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)'s recommendations in 50% of participants. Backwards steps reduced physiological load but improvements in activity levels between the first and last sessions show that steps could be learnt with time.ConclusionsZumba Gold® is safe and enjoyable for people with PD. The excellent compliance and positive participants' feedback suggest the need for a larger-scale trial.