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
Meet Judy
Discover how participating in the Y’s Parkinson’s Program has helped Judy manage her symptoms and live a fuller life.
Contact
Denise Denman
Chronic Disease Program Coordinator
[email protected] or 630-858-0153
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 ages 30-75 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 class that makes exercise functional to keep you moving and doing more of what you want to do! As you practice, you will be challenged physically and cognitively while working on fitness goals: strength, balance, agility, aerobics, and flexibility. Exercises are designed to improve your fitness, counteract symptoms and increase daily activity. This whole-body, function-focused exercise class will push you to do more than you think you can!
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. Led by experienced instructors, 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.
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.
New Group Format
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.