The Passion for Parkinson's Foundation has added a new virtual exercise class for the winter and spring that are specifically designed for people living with Parkinson’s Disease in Peel/Halton.
Virtual AgeWise will be led by Isolde Spies, a PWR! (Parkinson's Wellness Recovery) Moves certified instructor, in partnership with Parkinson’s Canada.
The program will run for 16 weeks, starting Jan. 16. Register online here.
In-person classes are also offered by the foundation in Burlington and Mississauga. Some of the programs include:
Boxing – Classes typically include exercises that help you improve hand-eye coordination, agility, speed, endurance, and strength. Activities will involve stretches and warm up exercises, punching speed bags and heavy bags, footwork and agility exercises (boxing gloves required; available for purchase). No experience is needed for this pilot program.
Spinning with Parkinson’s – In partnership with the City of Mississauga, certified instructors provide participants with modified pedalling drills, speed and temp options. The program focuses on power and intensity and allows for participants to progress at their own pace. Participants can bring a caregiver if assistance is needed.
Dancing with Parkinson’s – In partnership with Dancing with Parkinson’s, this unique program allows participants of all abilities to enjoy an artistic dance session with instructors trained in the Dance for PD Method. Participants will explore creative, enjoyable and stimulating sitting and standing movements to improve motor skills, cognitive abilities, improve gait, balance issues and decrease feelings of isolation through social interaction. Dance partners are welcome.
Parkinson’s Group Exercise – This program is specifically designed to improve fitness (aerobics, flexibility, strength, balance and agility), reduce PD symptoms and improve mobility and function. Participants will be challenged physically and cognitively while working on fitness goals. Classes are led by Paul Condinho, a certified PWR Moves! trained instructor.
Programs are wheelchair and walker-friendly. To register, email [email protected], or call Tamara at 416-230-3215.
Over 50 per cent of people with Parkinson’s Disease pay out of pocket for exercise programs and physiotherapy to help manage their symptoms. This reality continues to motivate the Passion for Parkinson’s Foundation, a registered charity that sources, implements and funds creative arts and exercise programs to support the Parkinson’s community of Halton/Peel.
The foundation aligns with community partners and certified instructors to deliver free arts and exercise programs that help manage the physical, cognitive and social conditions associated with Parkinson’s Disease.
For more information about the foundation’s programs, visit https://passionforparkinsons.org, or connect on Facebook or Instagram.
