Parkinson’s Programs

Active and Empowered

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a life-changing disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Many things can be done to maintain quality of life and live well with PD. The B.R. Ryall YMCA is proud to offer programs to improve participants’ movement, counteract symptoms, and increase daily activity. Most importantly, we provide a fun, supportive environment where participants can connect with others living with PD.

If you or someone you know would benefit from participating in our Parkinson’s programs and would like more information, please fill out our interest form below. We will be in contact with you soon.

Interest Form

Contact

Linette Rojas
Wellness Engagement and Chronic Disease Programs Manager
[email protected]

Meet Pat

When Parkinson’s changed Pat’s life, she refused to give up. Discover how the Y’s Parkinson’s Program helped her regain strength, confidence and hope

Meet Judy

Discover how participating in the Y’s Parkinson’s Program has helped Judy manage her symptoms and live a fuller life.

Programs

EXERCISING WITH PARKINSON’S
This class works the mind and body. For individuals with Parkinson’s or those who want to work on balance and coordination, this class focuses on axial rotation, balance, movement patterns, stretching and cardiovascular fitness. Movements may be done in a chair or standing.

PEDALING FOR PARKINSON’S
This class is designed to improve the quality of life for adults with Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. Pedaling faster than normal cadence forces regions of the brain to connect more effectively, which can lessen disease symptoms. Participants must be able to independently mount and dismount an upright stationary bicycle.

PWR! MOVES FOR PARKINSON’S
PWR! Moves is a Parkinson’s-specific exercise class designed to keep movement functional so you can continue doing the activities you love. Throughout each session, you’ll be challenged both physically and cognitively while working toward key fitness goals: strength, balance, agility, aerobics, and flexibility.

Exercises are intentionally structured to improve overall fitness, counteract common symptoms, and support increased daily activity. This whole-body, function-focused class will encourage you to move bigger, stronger, and more confidently—often more than you thought you could! (You can place this description into one paragraph, not sure if it would look too long.)

Yellow Group: This group will include mat-based exercises that require getting down to the floor and back up safely, with guidance from instructors.

TAI CHI FOR PARKINSON’S
This gentle, low-impact class is designed specifically for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Through slow, flowing, standing movements, you’ll work on improving balance, flexibility, and coordination while also experiencing relaxation and stress relief. Movements are adaptable to your comfort level, but this class is performed standing to support strength, stability, and posture.

WALKING WITH PARKINSON’S
This class offers a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can engage in exercises and movements designed to address specific motor and cognitive challenges associated with Parkinson’s. This class focuses on enhancing mobility, balance and coordination, while providing social interaction and emotional support. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with Parkinson’s for years, our walking class aims to improve your overall well-being and quality of life. Come walk with us and take positive steps toward a healthier and active lifestyle.

New Group Format

YOGA FOR NEUROMUSCULAR DISORDERS
This class offers an integrative approach to healing by using safe, effective, therapeutically-oriented yoga designed from the latest neuroscience research to adapt for individuals with Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Group recommendations are based on assessment data, which includes the Sit-to-Stand Test, Timed Up and Go Test, 4-Stage Balance Test, and 2-Minute Step Test.

Yellow Group: Classes at the Yellow level primarily involve standing exercises with some seated and kneeling exercises.

Blue Group: Classes at the Blue level are predominately seated, with occasional standing exercises.

Classes without a specific group/level designation are combined and open to participants of all levels. 

YMCA360 for at-home workouts!

All B.R. Ryall YMCA members can enjoy a vast collection of on-demand and livestream classes online through YMCA360. Enjoy their exclusive Parkinson’s Support content for at-home workouts under Fitness First.