SALT LAKE CITY — Morning Activity at Liberty Park

Saturday morning brought a vibrant scene to Liberty Park, where people engaged in a variety of activities like dancing, stretching, walking, boxing, and jogging. This gathering was part of the Parkinson’s Foundation’s annual “Moving Day” fundraising event.

Physical activity not only benefits those with Parkinson’s disease but research suggests that high-intensity workouts may actually slow the disease’s progression.

Daniel Corcos, a professor at Northwestern University and the lead investigator for the SPARX 3 study, is seeking scientific validation for these claims. The study is being conducted in Salt Lake City and several other North American locations.

“I think there’s every reason to believe that the key factor here is elevated heart rate,” he noted. “We are improving blood flow, thereby enhancing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to neurons in the brain.”

Philip Clark, who resides in Saratoga Springs, is wrapping up a two-year participation in the study. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease two years ago, he’s been required to exercise consistently for half an hour at 80% to 85% of his maximum heart rate.

“That was really hard for me. It was a struggle. I’m not a fan of exercise. It makes me tired,” Clark admitted. Yet, after about six months, he found his routine and now looks forward to his workouts.

“I can’t quite pinpoint what’s going on in my brain, but I do feel happier,” he shared.

However, between the science and the enthusiasm, there’s a lingering concern about funding. The Trump Administration halted hundreds of millions in funding for Northwestern, affecting grants from the National Institutes of Health, including that for SPARX 3. Northwestern’s president has stated that the institution will cover the funding gap “until we have a better understanding of the funding landscape.”

“It’s crucial for people to realize that certain kinds of research won’t occur without government or foundation funding,” said Corcos. He believes that this study could ultimately influence how people manage their lifestyles.

“When the evidence becomes strong enough, even those who usually avoid a healthy lifestyle might change their ways,” he asserted.