LIFT-PD Feasibility Trial
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Acceptability of High Intensity Functional Training in people with Parkinson's: a randomised feasibility trial (LIFT-PD)
IRAS ID
347393
Contact name
Danielle Pendry-Brazier
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bristol
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
Symptoms of Parkinson's disease (Parkinson's), such as fatigue, changes in mood, balance problems, and stiffness are common and debilitating. Exercise has been shown to slow progression of the condition and help manage symptoms. There is uncertainty about the optimal type and quantity of exercise that people with Parkinson’s should do.
High Intensity Functional Training (HIFT) combines different types of exercise performed at a relatively high intensity to improve multiple aspects of health and fitness including muscle strength, heart health, and balance - potentially making it well-placed to help improve quality of life for those with Parkinson's.Since this type of exercise is largely unexplored in the Parkinson's population, this project aims to investigate whether HIFT is feasible, acceptable and safe for people with Parkinson's.
We will undertake this feasibility trial in people with Parkinson's who are not already engaging with this type of exercise regularly. Participants will be asked to either do at least 2 exercise classes a week, at a gym or online at home, or to continue with their usual routine. Twice as many people will be in the "exercise" group than the "control" group.This is to maximise the amount of information we get relating to safety and acceptibility. We will ask people in the trial such as participants and those delivering the exercise interventions about their experiences of taking part. This trial will find out whether it will be possible to do the same or similar trial on a larger scale.
If it is possible to do this trial on a larger scale, we will seek funding do a UK-wide study afterwards. The results will help us decide if this type of exercise is beneficial to people with Parkinson's.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
26/WS/0029
Date of REC Opinion
3 Mar 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion