Classes Specialized for those with Parkinson’s

Get the benefits of a personal trainer and the motivating effect of working with a small group in this on-going program.

“I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in March, 2015. I realized it would be a good idea to enroll in an exercise class to try to maintain my health….At my first follow up with my neurologist, I got the good news that I was doing very well, the best patient that she had.  There was no stiffness or rigidity, and my strength was good. I have continued…and still to this day, have maintained by flexibility and strength, with no deterioration for 4 years. I credit this to TRX, as I get only moderate other types of exercise; occasional walking and riding a stationary bike. At my twice weekly classes, I evaluate myself for wellness, and it gives me confidence and inspiration.” –Staying Active with Parkinson’s Participant

To register for one of our programs or for more information, please contact Erin Buck, Fitness Director: 802-296-2950 ext 112.

THREE PROGRAMS! One is just right for you!

Pedaling For Parkinson’s™

The Pedaling for Parkinson’s™ program is based on research indicating that consistent exercise on a bicycle can reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s. In fact, participants who ride three days a week over eight weeks have shown improvement in their Parkinson’s-related symptoms by as much as 35%.

For convenience, this program is offered on indoor, stationary bikes.

Class Taught by Melanie Viegener, Certified Pedaling for Parkinson’s Instructor thru the Davis Phinney Foundation, and American Parkinson Disease Association Certified.

Dates: Wednesdays
Times: 11:30am – 12:30pm

Staying Active with Parkinson

Staying Active is a class designed for people with Parkinson’s Disease to work on and maintain balance, stability, flexibility, strength, and power with a variety of movements and implements while working around each individual’s needs and restrictions.

Class Taught by Brandon Thibodeau, American Parkinson Disease Association Certified.

Dates: Tuesdays & Thursdays
Times: 12:30-2:00pm

Rock Steady Boxing

Rock Steady Boxing is a health and wellness program designed for people with Parkinson’s Disease, a neurological condition that affects balance, strength, walking, and especially confidence. It’s based on a foundation of non-contact boxing, and it’s very effective for improving all of the symptoms that people with PD typically experience.

Class Taught by Wyatt Guillette, Certified Rock Steady Boxing Coach. Teaching 3x a week to all levels.

Current Dates:

Stages 1-2: Mon. & Fri 12:30pm – 2:00pm
Stages 3-4: Weds. 12:30pm – 2:00pm, *Moving to Fridays starting at 2:00pm on October 4, 2024

Before you begin your RSB experience, we will have you evaluated by one of our Team. What happens in an RSB Evaluation?

Questions:

• What medications are you currently taking?
• Do you have a caretaker?
• Would your caretaker be willing to assist you in your RSB classes?
• How long have you had Parkinsons?
• Do you have any other medical conditions?

Evaluation:

• Gait evaluation looking for stride length, dragging of feet, and drop foot
• Individual appropriate stability test
• Unilateral ROM and strength test to determine affected side of body and severity
• Speech test (observed throughout the evaluation)

Benefits of Exercise with Parkinson’s:

• Improve their confidence
• Decrease the severity of PD symptoms
• Experience reduced fear of falling down
• Perform daily activities more efficiently with higher quality
• Understand their physicality better and improve self-management
• They will be able to perform activities that many of us take for granted, like climbing stairs, entering a vehicle, and simply standing up and walking across the room. Regular training sessions will improve every area of their lives.
• Learn body weight exercises that focus on: Core work, multi-joint and multi-muscular movement to improve flexibility and range of movement
• Great functional training for life’s activities
• Taught by Wyatt Guillette

Upper Valley Programs for Parkinson’s supports, organizes and produces programs of structured physical and social activity specific to the needs of the Parkinson’s community. Please visit www.parkinsonsprograms.org for more information about affordable, specifically designed exercise programs and resources for people with Parkinson’s Disease.