May 31 is National Senior Health and Fitness Day! There is a growing consensus amongst researchers about the short- and long-term benefits of exercise for people with Parkinson’s disease. From dance- and theater-inspired groups to spin classes, visit our website and explore our Parkinson exercise programs available across Central Florida.
Not sure what wellness activities are in your area? Check out our website with listings of programs you could become involved in!
PD Golf Program: This group meets once a month with PGA Master Professional, John Hughes as he provides tips and tricks to help improve your golf game. He is dedicated to helping inspire individuals with Parkinson's to continue exercising and enjoying the great outdoors.
PWR! Parkinson Wellness Recovery: Florida Hospital Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation offers a Medical Fitness Program that is safe and effective for people with Parkinson’s disease. The focus of this program is on improving movement, balance, and coordination through group-exercise sessions.
Art’s The Spark: This program exercises imagination and creativity by providing a fun and expressive environment for members of the community who may struggle with memory, but not their imagination. This event is held at the Orlando Museum of Art once a month and is held during non-public hours, offering an experience designed to use fine art as a catalyst for discussion and reminiscing.
Movement As Medicine: Modeled after the Dance for PD® program, Movement as Medicine addresses issues of flexibility, balance, spatial awareness and a sense of confidence through the use of creative and therapeutic movements and dance. Participants are empowered to explore movements with music that address these concerns in ways that are enjoyable, stimulating and creative.
Living Out Loud: Living Out Loud is a fun, interactive speech therapy group for those who have PD and have completed the LSVT Loud speech therapy. This is a monthly group, led by licensed SLP, and is offered at the Florida Hospital Church.
CHEER>DRAMA Therapy Group: This group uses laughter as exercise and Focuses on mood, movement and voice. This program is for both people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.
Pedaling for Parkinson’s: Is a Parkinson’s-specific indoor spin class on stationary spin bikes that offers high-cadence cycling which has been proven in research to improve/impact motor function.
Rock Steady Boxing: This program is offered in two locations in Orlando. One is Central Orlando, at the Wadeview Community Center, and the second one is located in Longwood. Both programs help improve the quality of life of those suffering from Parkinson's disease and focuses on balance, strength and agility while incorporating boxing exercises.
KOPD – Knock Out Parkinson’s Disease: KOPD is a collaborative effort of TITLE Boxing Club, Florida Hospital and the Parkinson Association of Central Florida. Using four different TITLE Boxing Club locations, these classes are offered with reservations.