Exercise for Movement Disorders

Current Class Offerings

Research has shown that exercise has helped to reduce the symptom severity and progress in those with Parkinson’s disease. The MAPC exercise classes are based on methods designed to improve the quality of life of those with Parkinson’s and meet the various levels of ability for those participating to ensure safety. 

All new class participants must have an assessment prior to starting any new exercise class. Registration is required for all classes. Scroll down the page to see our list of available classes and meetings times and locations.

Art of Moving

The exercises performed in this class are designed to help one anticipate, prevent, and delay symptoms. They are targeted toward symptoms that occur in most everyone with Parkinson’s disease, such as tremor, rigidity, uncertain balance, slowness, and incomplete range of movement

PWR!Moves

Participants will learn how to use high-effort muscle activation for bigger movements, better posture, better balance, and for improvements with everyday functions like walking, turning, rising from a chair or floor, and speaking.

PWR!Circuit

This class integrates skills learned in PWR!Moves™ into a more advanced gym workout. Participants are prepared for each station with a short warmup and then practice the station exercises more independently under the guidance of an instructor. Station activities include cardiovascular, strength, agility, coordination, balance, and flexibility exercises.

Mat Yoga

Yoga encompasses physical movement, breath development, and mental focus or mindfulness. This class includes breathing exercises, mindful awareness activities, and physical movement. Mat yoga is a more advanced yoga practice incorporating standing poses, balance and strengthening work. Participants are able to get up and down from the floor independently and follow verbal instructions independently.  

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a series of individual dance-like movements linked together in a continuous, smooth-flowing sequence. This mind and body workout is intended to stretch, tone, and relax the whole body instead of isolating parts. For people with movement disorders, Tai Chi can reduce stress and increase energy, as well as improve circulation, muscle tone, concentration and focus, and balance.

Contact Information

For additional information on these programs or to find out how to sign up, contact Patty Hatton at (602) 406-3840 or email Patrice.Hatton@DignityHealth.org