Trial results for a study investigating barre exercise in Parkinson's Disease were posted on ClinicalTrials.gov on 2025-06-26, indicating that 11 out of 13 enrolled participants completed the study.
Background
Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement, often characterized by tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. Non-pharmacological interventions, particularly exercise, are recognized as important components of a comprehensive management plan for Parkinson's, helping to maintain mobility, balance, and overall quality of life. Exploring diverse and engaging exercise modalities, such as barre, can offer new options for patients, potentially improving adherence and providing specific benefits related to balance, strength, and flexibility, which are often compromised in the condition.
Trial design
This completed Phase 1 study enrolled 13 participants with Parkinson Disease. The trial aimed to evaluate if a barre exercise program is a feasible and acceptable form of exercise for individuals with Parkinson's disease. Additionally, the study sought to assess barre's potential effects on motor outcomes, including balance, strength, and functional mobility. The intervention involved participation in a barre exercise program, with no comparator arms specified.
Key results
The trial results focused on feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary motor outcomes for participants in the barre class group:
- Attendance: 10 Participants attended the barre classes.
- Retention (Study Completion): 11 Participants completed the study.
- Balance: The mean change in balance scores was -0.67 (Standard Deviation 1.58) on a scale.
- Functional Strength: The mean change in functional strength was 1.45 (Standard Deviation 3.10) seconds.
- Gait: The mean change in gait speed was 0.05 (Standard Deviation 0.08) m/s.
- Acceptability: The mean acceptability score was 3.8 (Full Range) on a scale.
What this means
The posted results suggest that a barre exercise program is both feasible and acceptable for individuals with Parkinson's Disease. High retention, with 11 out of 13 participants completing the study, indicates good adherence to the program. The mean acceptability score of 3.8 further supports the program's positive reception among participants. While a Phase 1 study primarily assesses safety and feasibility, the observed trends in motor outcomes, such as changes in balance, functional strength, and gait, suggest potential benefits that warrant further investigation in larger, controlled trials. These findings could inform the development of new exercise recommendations and programs for managing Parkinson's symptoms.
Source
The information regarding these trial results was obtained from ClinicalTrials.gov, a public database of clinical studies. The results for the study NCT06203990, titled "Barre Exercise in Parkinson's", were posted on 2025-06-26 on clinicaltrials.gov.