Experience the joy of movement in this class designed for people with Parkinson’s and their care partners. Participants will access their creativity within a supportive community of movers. Classes incorporate seated warm-ups with standing and locomotor movement that can also be adapted for seated movers.

This one-hour fitness class draws from the same strength and flexibility-building classes used by our Tumbling Tigers gymnastics team.  Each class will start with a cardio warm-up and stretch, followed by a variety of body-weight exercises targeting large and small muscle groups.  Most exercises can be modified for all ability levels, making this a fun and challenging class whether you are a former (or current) gymnast or just looking to try something different!

Life in Movement is a form of dance therapy utilizing the Maria Fux Method. It is the integration of mental connection and physical movement through music and space without specific choreography or learned steps. The instructed practice brings grounding, presence and connectedness to utilize both sides of the brain.

Free and open to the public!

Moving for Better Balance: Tai Ji Quan (MBB)
In the United States, fall related injuries are a major public health concern for aging individuals as well as those living with chronic conditions such as heart disease. Falls are NOT a normal part of aging, and you CAN reduce your risk of a fall! Moving for Better Balance is a “fall-prevention program” that uses the principles and movements of Tai Chi to help adults improve and increase their confidence in doing everyday activities.

The program works to improve balance, muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility to enhance overall physical health, which leads to better functioning in daily activities. Participation in the program may also result in better mental health, reduced stress, improved memory and cognition, and increased self-esteem.

In addition to the program’s physical benefits, the safe, supportive group setting provides an opportunity for participants to enjoy learning with like-minded adults and find relief from the isolation that can sometimes come from living with limited mobility.

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Pedaling a bicycle may change the life of someone with Parkinson’s disease. Research conducted at the Cleveland Clinic showed a 35% reduction in symptoms by the simple act of pedaling a bicycle at a rapid pace – optimally 80-90 revolutions per minute.

Fast pedaling is not a cure of Parkinson’s disease and should not be described as such, but there is compelling evidence that it can make a real difference for many who try it. We do know that fast-paced cycling is changing the lives of increasing numbers of participants who, before this, had no hope beyond medication and eventually surgery to slow the progression of their disease.

The mission of Pedaling for Parkinson’s is:

• To improve the quality of life of Parkinson’s disease patients and their caregivers.
• To educate patients, caregivers, and the general public about the benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle after a Parkinson’s diagnosis.
• To support research dedicated to the prevention and treatment of Parkinson’s disease

No cost to YMCA Members. Please contact Jayne at 413-773-3646 ext 448 for more information or to schedule the initial intake.

This program is supported in part by the American Parkinson Disease Association Massachusetts Chapter

Tai Chi, a form of exercise developed in ancient China and practiced worldwide, has demonstrated under rigorous scientific studies to have a powerful effect on health.

Known for its slow, fluid movements, the central premise in Tai Chi is to integrate the mind and body.

Tai Chi promotes balance, flexibility, muscular strength and cardiovascular fitness as well as increased levels of psychological well-being and reduction of anxiety and stress.

Tai Chi is safe, easy to learn and suitable for every age, fitness level, and experience. Heal and strengthen the body, mind & spirit.