YMCA of Bucks County has introduced programs aimed at benefiting members of the community with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that can have a profound impact on the way people move.
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, exercise is a vital component to maintaining balance, mobility and activities of daily living. Studies show that aerobic, resistance programs, like cycling, benefit and support Parkinson’s patients. In particular, the Parkinson’s Outcomes Project shows that people with PD who start exercising early and at a minimum of 2.5 hours a week, experience a slowed decline in quality of life.
During the fall I session, which began Sept. 3, the Quakertown branch of YMCA of Bucks County will introduce two programs aimed at introducing cycling to Parkinson’s patients and maintaining a higher level of exercise. The first, Parkinson’s Intro to Cycling Class, is for beginners who have never taken a cycling class before with the second, Parkinson’s Maintenance Cycling Class for returning participants who have already taken the beginner program.
YMCA of Bucks County provides community impact programs to Bucks County residents as a way of fulfilling their mission and strengthening the health and wellness of the community. Current programs include THRIVE Cancer Wellness, Empower U, Veterans Wellness, Healthy Lifestyles diabetes prevention and Living Active to promote the wellness of the community.
For more information about the Parkinson’s cycling program at the Quakertown branch, contact Jen Gaj at
jgaj@ymcabucks.org.
