AFT Webinar – April 2026 (Neuroplasticity in Parkinson’s)

What if exercise could reshape the brain? For people living with Parkinson’s disease, a growing body of research suggests it can – and understanding the mechanisms behind that change has the potential to fundamentally transform clinical and fitness practice.

This evidence-informed webinar explores the relationship between physical activity and neuroplasticity in the context of Parkinson’s disease, bridging the gap between neuroscience and real-world application. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of the neuroanatomical and physiological changes that drive both motor and non-motor symptoms, before examining how targeted exercise interventions can promote neurorestoration and neuroprotection in the Parkinson’s brain.

The session moves from science into practice — equipping attendees with a clear, evidence-based framework for Parkinson’s-specific exercise prescription, including guidance on optimal dosage, exercise selection, and the principles that underpin meaningful functional outcomes for clients.

This webinar is suitable for:

• Physiotherapists
• Occupational Therapists
• Specialist Nurses (PD/MS)
• Exercise Physiologists
• Personal Trainers
• Exercise Referral Instructors
• Rehabilitation and exercise specialists

Whether you are already working with people living with Parkinson’s and looking to deepen your clinical reasoning, or exploring the condition for the first time, this session offers an accessible and evidence-grounded entry point into specialist practice.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Recognise Parkinson’s disease in practice — understanding who it affects, how it presents, and why early identification matters
• Describe the neuroanatomical and physiological changes associated with Parkinson’s, including both motor and non-motor symptoms
• Explain the mechanisms by which exercise promotes neuroplasticity, neurorestoration and neuroprotection in the Parkinson’s brain
• Apply an evidence-based framework for Parkinson’s-specific exercise prescription, including appropriate dosage and exercise selection
• Reflect on current practice and identify opportunities to strengthen client outcomes through targeted programming

About our Guest

Maria Lewis is a specialist physiotherapist in Parkinson’s disease, with over 10 years’ experience working exclusively with people living with Parkinson’s. She is the co-founder of Reach Your Peak, a physiotherapy-led online exercise community dedicated to empowering people with Parkinson’s to live active, fulfilling lives.

As both an educator and clinician, Maria is the lead contributor and author of the CIMSPA-accredited Parkinson’s Pro course, playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between theory and practice. Through this work, she equips physiotherapists and exercise professionals with the confidence and practical skills to use exercise as a powerful intervention for people with Parkinson’s within their communities.

Maria is a founding member of the Parkinson’s UK Excellence Network Exercise Hub, a network of over 700 healthcare and exercise professionals committed to championing physical activity for people with Parkinson’s. She also serves as Chair of the Welsh Board of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), ensuring rehabilitation remains firmly on the Government’s agenda.

What makes AFT Live Panel Webinars Unique?

Earn While You Learn

Attendees can claim 0.5 CIMSPA CPD points for participating in our live webinars, supporting your ongoing professional development and commitment to inclusive fitness practice.

Why Attend Our Live Webinars?

Real-Time Expertise: Connect directly with specialists in adaptive fitness, neurological conditions, and rehabilitation through our live format
Interactive Learning: Ask questions, get immediate answers, and engage with industry experts as the session unfolds
Flexible Viewing: Watch from your computer, tablet, mobile, or smart TV—wherever works best for you
Professional Networking: Connect with fellow fitness professionals who share your passion for inclusive health through our live chat
Practical Insights: Walk away with evidence-based strategies you can implement immediately in your practice

Who Should Join?

Qualified fitness professionals looking to expand their knowledge in adaptive fitness training. Whether you specialize in neurological conditions, work with clients with limb loss or spinal injuries, or simply want to build your confidence in inclusive health and rehabilitation, our webinars provide valuable CPD opportunities that enhance your professional practice.