OSF Saint Francis Wellness Services is offering a fitness class specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The 8-week Fitness for Parkinson’s session focuses on providing a medically supervised program to improve flexibility, endurance, balance, strength, and overall well being. It will consist of functional activities, breathing techniques, postural awareness, ambulation training, and whole body stretching.

The classes are 60 minutes long with group education and discussion following the exercise session. Physician approval is required to participate and will be obtained by OSF Saint Francis staff.

WHEN: June 21 – August 11, 2011 on Tuesday & Thursday
TIME: 11:00 AM – Noon
WHERE: RiverPlex Recreation & Wellness Center, 2nd Floor Aerobics Studio, 600 NE Water Street, Peoria
COST: RiverPlex Members – $50 Non-Members – $80

Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder that is chronic and progressive. Nearly one million Americans are living with Parkinson’s, with 60,000 diagnosed with the disease each year. Incidence of Parkinson’s increases with age, but an estimated four percent of people with Parkinson’s are diagnosed before age 50.

To register for the fitness class or for more information, call 309.282.1623.