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Springfield, IL Area

 

Studies are showing that exercise is beneficial for people with Parkinson's.  Not only can it make you feel better physically, but it can help boost your mood, give you energy and build your confidence.  With that said, you need to be safe and choose an exercise program that best fits your abilities. It also needs to be enjoyable so choose a program that you like.  If you enjoy it, you are more likely to continue going back. It is always best to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Painting, right by Dr. Glen Aylward. Titled 'bubbles,' and part of the artist's latest series.
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Parkinson's Exercise Classes Near Springfield, IL

Click on the program name for more information.

The Joy of Movement: Dance for Parkinson's

Why is dancing helpful for persons with Parkinson's Disease? Dance develops flexibility and instills confidence; it is a social activity that breaks isolation; it connects the mind to the body; and, last but not least, the essence of dance is joy!
  • Classes are offered via Zoom three times per week for people with PD and their significant others or care partners.
  • Prior dance experience is not required to participate.
  • No fee to participate in the class.
  • Registration is required.

For more information about The Joy of Movement click here.

CLICK HERE to listen to NPR Illinois' interview about The Joy of Movement.

When:

Tuesdays 1:30 – 2:45 PM, Thursdays 1:30 – 2:45 PM, and/or Wednesdays 10:30 -11:45 AM

Contact:

To register or to obtain further information please contact Eve Fischberg, Occupational Therapist, Instructor.

Phone - 217-494-4961

Email -  joyofmovement2@gmail.com

Transformative Movement: Martial Arts for Persons with Parkinson’s Disease

Exercise has long been touted as a means to deal with Parkinson's. The martial arts improves balance, flexibility, mobility, muscle memory, coordination, mental focus, and confidence. Cognitive components include memorization and sequencing. Each individual does what one an so the class is essentially self-paced. Humor is used as a therapeutic method as well! Sir Willian Osler once said, "Only a doctor who has experienced the disease really understands it." Dr. Aylward fits into that category as a person with PD and over 45 years of martial arts experience.
  • Classes are offered via Zoom once per week for people with PD and their significant others or care partners.
  • Prior martial arts experience is not required to participate.
  • No fee to participate in the class.

When:

Monday afternoons from 4:00 to 4:45 PM (unless a holiday conflicts).

Contact:

To register or to obtain further information please contact Glen Aylward, PhD, Instructor.

Email - gpapsych65@gmail.com

For more information about Dr. Aylward's class click here.

The Silver Sneakers Program at FitClub

The nation's leading older-adult exercise program that improves overall fitness and social interaction.
    • Classes are offered in Classic, Circuit, and Yoga formats or as Group or Personal training sessions.
    • In the Dynamic Steady format, Master Trainer and Rocksteady Boxing Certified Coach Max, leads a full body exercise routine, designed specifically for those with Parkinson's Disease. Every workout contains exercises that focus on strength, flexibility, stability, mobility, motor control. and improving overall independence and quality of life. The best part? This program is virtual!  You can join Max from the safety and comfort of your home. Please contact your Success Coach for details!

Contact:

To register or to obtain further information please contact Justin Angel or FitClub.

Justin Angel - justin@fitclub.net

217-787-8348