Theracycle

[Dottie2]

Are any of you familiar with the theracycle, the forced exercise to supposedly help improve PD symptoms?

[Bailey_Texas]

yes i have one used it a couple of months not a lot of help for me. Got bored.

[NanCyclist]

You can use it as a clothes rack. I've heard there is a problem with the algorithm.

[jeffreyn in reply to NanCyclist]

Nan, are you aware of any products available in the retail market which have "non-problematic" active-assisted-cycling algorithms?

[NanCyclist in reply to jeffreyn]

None that I know of. I'm glad that Rustjudge feels a benefit but Donzim's analysis is more accurate. I don't mean to discount his experience bu't placebo effect may be at work. I have been to the lab at the Cleveland Clinic and the Theracycle was gathering dust. They have been trying to develop one for years, but nothing has come to market as far as I know.

[jeffreyn in reply to NanCyclist]

The Alberts/Ridgel formula specifies a 40 minute cycling session 3 times per week, maintaining a cadence of 80-90 rpm and a heart rate of 60-80% of HRmax. You and I (and many others) manage to achieve this using non-powered bikes, and we are experiencing the predicted benefits.

If the Theracycle (or any other powered bike) helps a less-able person to meet the requirements of the formula, why would a special algorithm be necessary?

[NanCyclist in reply to jeffreyn]

I'm not that kind of scientist. Sorry.

[rustjudge]

I have used one for several years and find it to be very helpful with cardio. system, balance ,stamina, etc. A little pricey but worth every penny to me. The company that makes the theracycle is solid and will back their product to the hilt. I could not do without it and I RIDE 15---45 MINUTES 4 or 5 days a week. In my opinion it is a great product to help slow down the onslaught of the invidious and insidious of Parkinsons.

[Donzim]

the original study at cleveland clinic re bicycling and Pd involved not just passive exercise (the machine does all the work) but the combination of passive and active (person does some of the work). it was the combination of the two. i know that theracycle advertised that they were the answer but as far as i know, unless they have modified their equipment to do both, the theracycle only does passive exercise.

passive exercise does in and of itself something in that it gets the juices going through movement but don't think it duplicates the study.