Despite clinical observations of truncal involvement, and the potentially serious subsequent complications, studies have not quantitatively investigated the effect of exercise class participation on trunk performance in Parkinsonians. We examined the effects of training on trunk function in 13 persons with early Parkinson's disease, compared with 13 non-exercising Parkinsonians. The exercise subjects attended 12 weeks of half-weekly aerobic classes; the warm-up included strengthening exercises specific to the trunk. The control subjects attended an 'interest talk' every 3 weeks. Range of motion, torque and velocity of trunk flexors, extensors and rotators were examined using the Isostation B200 dynamometer. The Webster Disability Rating Scale was used to assess neurological signs, the Northwestern University Disability Scale to assess functional implications of these signs, and the Human Activity Profile to evaluate intensity, of daily activity, as limited primarily by non-Parkinsonian elements. Isometric torque production and velocity against resistance improved in the exercise group, the results achieving or nearing significance when compared with the control group. No difference between groups was noted regarding range of motion or Parkinsonian sign severity. Therefore, participation in an aerobic exercise class incorporating trunk muscle training has the potential to improve trunk muscle performance. These benefits can be gained without worsening neurological signs or trunk flexibility of Parkinsonians.

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