Sports: Bowling and Parkinson’s Disease
When we think of sports many times, bowling may not be the first at sports fans’ fingertips or the one causing argument between historic finals that changed the game for many. However, it is one I am proud to say I grew up playing. I even had my own bowling ball, shoes, and wrist guard, learned the skill to curve the ball, and was around a 170 average. Today, I may be lucky to hit one pin.
My mother loved bowling and was in leagues when I was in my teens. She also signed me up as a child, and funny enough, I remember not wanting to wake up Sunday mornings to bowl, and she would drag me out of bed to show me the importance of teamwork, time management, and so many skills I would learn to enjoy through sport.
Today, I cannot play due to shoulder and back injuries. However, through research and interviews, I have discovered how beneficial bowling can be for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s and caregivers. It can slow the progression of PD and bring families closer together. Caregivers can play together, have fun, and gain essential skills that stand the test of time.
In an interview with David who was diagnosed with Pd, stated that bowling “…is his exercise. With Parkinson’s, the more you sit, the worse you are going to get — that movement, (is important) you know, whether it is riding a bike, walking, or bowling (McDonald, 2024).
Furthermore, “Parkinson’s has changed the way David walks and talks, and it has given him a shaky hand, but it has not stopped him from living. The disease is just part of his and his family’s story” (McDonald, 2024).
Remember, it does not mean it is the end if you are like me and cannot run a marathon or do many things today due to multiple back and shoulder surgeries or is you were diagnosed with Pd. Instead, try another exercise or another sport. Give bowling a try, and you may be surprised how important this sport can be emotionally and physically in slowing the progression of Pd.
Reference
McDonald, B. (2024). Bowling is more than exercise for local man battling Parkinson’s. Retrieved from https://www.paducahsun.com/news/bowling-is-more-than-exercise-for-local-man-battling-parkinsons/article_480229b7-8c99-5a86-9956-e31ef3955334.html