How Exercise and Light Therapy Work Together

The benefits of exercise for Parkinson’s disease are well-documented. From improving balance and mobility to enhancing mood and cognitive function, regular physical activity plays a crucial role in managing symptoms. But with advancements in technology, a new question arises—can we take these benefits even further by integrating light therapy?

A Powerful Partnership: Kickboxing and Light Therapy

Beate Schönwald, a German Parkinson’s nurse and passionate kickboxer, was inspired by the success of martial arts programs for Parkinson’s in the US. Seeing the potential, she transformed her passion into something bigger—the "Kick-Parkinson" exercise group.

While exercise had already proven beneficial, Beate was curious whether light therapy could enhance the results. That curiosity led her to SYMBYX. After several discussions, a unique collaboration was formed—"Kick-Parkinson x SYMBYX."

For 16 weeks, members of the "Kick-Parkinson" group combined SYMBYX light therapy with their weekly kickboxing sessions. Their goal? To see if this dual approach could lead to greater mobility, coordination, and overall well-being.

Beyond Therapy—A Path to a Fuller Life

Beate saw the impact firsthand:

"Through these programs, people with Parkinson’s not only gain an alternative therapy option but also the opportunity to take an active role in improving their quality of life."

And for participants like Horst, the experience was transformative.

Horst’s Journey: From Skeptic to Believer

When Horst first heard about light therapy from Beate, he had his doubts.

‘This is nonsense,’ he thought. ‘What effect is that supposed to have?’

But he also knew that trying something new was worth the risk. Kickboxing had already helped him regain strength—so why not see if light therapy could push his progress even further?

As the weeks passed, Horst noticed a difference. His movements became smoother, his stiffness eased, and his energy levels improved. More than that, he felt a renewed sense of independence and confidence.

‘We’re doing things as a family again—going on trips, spending time together, and truly enjoying ourselves. Light therapy has given me my quality of life back.’

The Future of Exercise and Light Therapy for Parkinson’s

The combination of exercise and light therapy is still a relatively new concept, but early results from "Kick-Parkinson x SYMBYX" suggest it could be a game-changer. By integrating innovative non-invasive therapies with structured movement programs, people with Parkinson’s may have more tools than ever to manage their condition effectively.

If you're curious about how this combination could work for you or a loved one, reach out to our team. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you take the next step toward better movement and quality of life. Contact us today!

Want to learn more about how SYMBYX can help you?

Learn More