[Teretxu]

I'm not sure that's the right wording, but anyway... men who work hard or do vigorous exercise cut their chances of developing PD by up to 60%.
In the case of women, the percentage was negligeable. Nature is wise - it's the guys who have to do the hard work!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/4285013.stm

[RLSmi]

then I guess my regular lawn work should be neuroprotective! With the temp in the 35 C range and the relative humidity about 99 like it is here in the summer, almost any exertion leaves one dripping in sweat in no time. It is difficult to stay hydrated, and I have to keep lots of drinking water handy to keep from running dry and passing out from heat prostration. When I finish, I usually just shed my dripping clothes and sweat bands on the washroom floor before entering the rest of the house (if no guests are present ).

[Todd]

I've always wondered how much worse off I'd be if I wasn't so physically fit and active. I do truly believe in the neuroprotective aspects of exercise, so as hard as it is sometimes, I just keep pushing forward...

[EnglishCountryDancer]

My husband was a runner in his teens Then dropped it until his mid 30s when he started vey serious running competing in marathons quite reqularly.P.D was diagnosed at 61.which is two and a half years ago.At present his only real symptom is tremor and drooling:he still runs but in the gym(The instructor thinks he is improving)Still plays a squeeze box for at least an hour a day which exercises his fingers. Still sings and calls dances, usually without a mike.Still Morris dances(You know men in white with bells and hankies )I mention all this as I wonder how he would be if he did not exercise.AND when did the P.D strike originally ?Was it during his inactive period during his 20s?He certainly had a tremor in his foot when excited ,annoyed or angry for at least 25 years before P.D was diagnosed formally.OR was he just one of the unlucky ones that just got P.D anyway? I suppose we will never know.He has now started using the bicycle!!!