Parkinson's Exercise
The Y's Parkinson's Exercise class is a combination of researched-based PWR Moves (a specific exercise program for those with Parkinson's) and cycling on an upright or recumbent bicycle. The class is taught by a certified group fitness instructor, specializing in Parkinson's disease and exercise. The classes can be easily adapted to individuals at all levels of the disease and are equally valuable to those who have been newly diagnosed as well as those in progressed states of the disease. Exercise IS medicine for people with Parkinson's Disease.
Goals of This Class:
- Improve the quality of life of Parkinson’s disease patients and their caregivers
- Educate patients, caregivers, and the general public about the benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle after a Parkinson’s diagnosis
- Support research dedicated to prevention and treatment of Parkinson’s disease
What is Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a disorder that affects approximately one million Americans and is caused by a lack of the chemical messenger dopamine in the movement centers of the brain. Besides a lack of dopamine, PD can be aggravated by genetic factors, exposure to pesticides or industrial toxins and the process of aging itself. Its three major symptoms are tremor (trembling which usually starts in one hand), rigidity in the trunk or limbs and slowness of movement. It is a progressive disorder, meaning that it typically gets worse over the years. New treatments are emerging for PD for the purpose of reducing symptoms.
Who Can Participate?
- Participants must be an adult and diagnosed with Idiopathic PD
- Must complete and submit a signed consent form and receive medical clearance
Who CANNOT Participate?
Parkinson’s patients with the following medical conditions:
- Cardiac or pulmonary disease
- Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
- Uncontrolled hypertension or stroke
- Dementia
- Other medical conditions that are contradictory to exercise
Who Can Participate?
- Participants must be an adult and diagnosed with Idiopathic PD
- Must complete and submit a signed consent form and receive medical clearance
Who CANNOT Participate?
Parkinson’s patients with the following medical conditions:
- Cardiac or pulmonary disease
- Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
- Uncontrolled hypertension or stroke
- Dementia
- Other medical conditions that are contradictory to exercise
