A single dance class can significantly improve functional mobility in people living with Parkinson’s disease, according to new research from Queen’s University Belfast.
Study overview
The study, carried out by researchers in the School of Psychology, involved 19 participants with Parkinson’s. Each took part in a dance session and a control activity in which they watched a lecture on dance topics. Both sessions lasted a similar length of time. Measurements before and after each session used established clinical assessments, including the timed-up-and-go test, which times how long it takes to stand from a chair, walk three metres, return and sit down. This test reflects the mobility needed for safe movement at home or in public spaces.
Participants completed the test more quickly and efficiently after the dance session than after the lecture. Both activities lowered anxiety levels and improved cognitive task performance, but only dance produced significant changes in physical movement.
Key findings
The results indicate that even a brief session of rhythmic, expressive movement can produce immediate gains in motor function for people with Parkinson’s.
Dr Matthew Rodger, who co-led the research, says: “Interestingly, we found that after just one single dance class there were improvements in functional mobility. This is how we move independently and safely during activities like walking, reaching and standing up from a chair.”
“While both the dance class and the lecture led to some positive changes, such as reduced anxiety and improved cognitive test scores, the dance class really stood out for its unique effect on mobility.”
He adds: “We can now see that a single dance class may offer short-term functional mobility benefits, especially in tasks like the TUG. We hope to do more research on this as the cognitive and mood benefits may not be unique to dance. They could stem from general social engagement or observation of dance.”
The study, titled Evaluating the short-term effects of dance on motor and non-motor outcomes in people living with Parkinson’s: A crossover study, was published in PLOS One on 31st July 2025. It was co-authored by Dr Mihalis Doumas and Anna Carapellotti. The crossover design meant each participant served as their own control. All participants took their usual medication on session days. Recruitment involved university networks, Parkinson’s UK support groups and community referrals. Individuals with recent surgeries or other neurological conditions were excluded.
Context of parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s remains a progressive and challenging condition with no known cure. In the UK, around 166,000 people are currently diagnosed, according to prevalence data from Parkinson’s UK published in October 2025. Experts warn that NHS pressures may lead to under-diagnosis.
Globally, the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 projects that cases could reach 25.2 million by 2050, more than double the 2021 figure. Longer lifespans and population growth, especially in East Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, drive this increase.
The condition includes more than 40 motor and non-motor symptoms, which range from tremors and chronic pain to anxiety and cognitive difficulties.
Wider evidence for dance
The Queen’s team notes that the improvements observed were modest, as expected in a small pilot study, yet point to the value of movement-based approaches in Parkinson’s care. Dance engages multiple brain networks and may support neuroplasticity in ways that counteract the dopamine loss associated with the condition. A 2020 meta-analysis by the Belfast group linked regular dance to improvements in balance, gait and quality of life.
This new study isolates the effect of a single class, showing that even minimal participation can produce measurable benefits.
Lived experience
Personal accounts align with the findings. Heather Shannon from Randalstown in Northern Ireland, who was diagnosed three years ago, attends Movement to Music classes run by Parkinson’s UK. Although she did not participate in the Queen’s study, she reports positive effects.
Heather explains: “I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s three years ago and the advice I was given was that exercise would be one of the best ways to help me physically and mentally. I simply love dance movements as they are very helpful for my Parkinson’s symptoms. My back has been sore but the dance movements actually help ease the pain.”
Community programmes such as Dance for Parkinson’s, offered through organisations including Parkinson’s UK, blend structured instruction with social interaction to reduce isolation.
Expert response
Katherine Fletcher, research communications lead at Parkinson’s UK, welcomes the findings. She says: “It’s encouraging to see research highlighting the impact of dance on Parkinson’s. While many people with the condition already find dance to be beneficial, there is still limited evidence explaining exactly how and why it helps.”
“This study is a positive step forward and shows dance might be helping mobility, but we need larger and longer-term research to better understand the benefits of dance. With more evidence, we can make dance more accessible and inspire confidence in its potential to help people manage their condition.”
Emma McKeown, Parkinson’s UK area development manager, adds that physical activity is as important as correct medication dosing. She says dance supports balance, coordination, posture, core strength and gait, while also providing mental and social benefits.
Implications
As Parkinson’s prevalence rises, integrating accessible activities such as dance into standard care may help improve mobility and well-being. Although preliminary, the Belfast study strengthens the case for incorporating movement-based programmes into everyday management of the condition.
