Exercise and Parkinson's Disease: The Need Has Been Established – Are You In?
The Parkinson Wellness Program is a great way to help people overcome some of the most common excuses for not exercising such as “I don’t know how to get started,” “Exercise is boring or too hard,” and “Exercise leaders don’t understand people with Parkinson's disease.” The Parkinson Wellness Program provides a welcoming place to participate in professionally led classes, tailored to the needs of people with Parkinson's disease. Leaders and fellow participants provide the motivation and accountability that are critical to establishing and maintaining healthy new habits. The classes also provide a good venue for sharing information, experiences, and emotional support.
Have you been thinking about exercise but aren’t quite sure how to start? Would you benefit from a dynamic group class to keep you motivated and continuing? Check out the Parkinson Wellness Program, sponsored by the National Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania. Locations and times are convenient with sites in four counties around the region. All facilities are handicap accessible. Leaders are knowledgeable, energetic, and helpful. And best of all, classes are fun!
"If you have Parkinson's disease, exercise is even more important (than for those without)."
- National Parkinson Foundation
"Exercise is a realistic and practical way to fight Parkinson's disease."
- American Parkinson Disease Association
"Exercise is as important as medication for the management
of Parkinson's disease."
- Parkinson Disease Foundation
"Although structured exercise programs help many patients, more general physical activity, such as walking, gardening, swimming, and using exercise machines, is also beneficial."
- National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke
"Exercise is a great way to change one’s physical and emotional states. It also helps to add mobility, flexibility and bone strength. And, being in a group setting adds the best medicine of all . . . laughter. Happiness lies, first of all, in health."
- Frank Williams (East End and Monroeville programs)
Recent studies support the value of regular exercise in managing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. In addition to enhancing physical abilities, exercise improves cognitive functions, overall mood, a sense of well-being, and it helps decrease depression. For most people with Parkinson's disease, exercise can be an important tool for managing the disease.
For more information on class enrollment contact David Von Hofen at the National Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania, 412-837-2542 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
