PD Power Hour

Join us for a free whole-body exercise experience tailored for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Classes utilize PWR! Moves, a research-based approach that leverages exercise-induced neuroplasticity to reduce symptoms, enhance fitness, and encourage independence in a fun and supportive environment.

Two levels to offer the appropriate challenge for brain change!

Sponsored by:

UAB’s Center for Engagement in Disability Health and Rehabilitation Science (CEDHARS)

Led by:

Vanessa Kaczmarek, PT, DPT, NCS – Neuroactive Therapy and Wellness

Certified PWR! Moves Physical Therapist | Parkinson’s-Specific Exercise Expert

2 Different Levels to offer the appropriate challenge for each participant. Please select the most appropriate class for you based on your abilities.

Supportive Group (Adaptable Pace):

  • May use cane or walker for walking

  • Can stand from a chair independently using support (e.g., chair or walker)

  • Can get on and off the floor with help of a chair and one assisting person

  • Has had 0–1 falls in the past 6 weeks

  • Class pace is adaptable, with rest breaks as needed

  • Smaller group with more personalized support

Offered at 2pm-3pm one Thursday per month. 2025 Dates:

Thursday, September 4th

Thursday, October 9th

Thursday, November 6th

Thursday, December 4th

Dynamic Challenge Group (High Intensity):

  • Walks independently without a cane or walker

  • Can stand from a chair without use of hands or external support

  • Can get on and off the floor independently

  • No falls in the past 6 weeks

  • Class involves continuous movement with fewer rest breaks

  • Energetic group setting with dynamic movements and faster pace

Offered from 10am-11am one Friday per month. 2025 Dates:

Friday, August 22nd

Friday, September 26th

Friday, October 24th

Friday, November 21st

Friday, December 19th

Reserve Your Spot Today!

You can reach out to Vanessa or use this link to reserve your spot. Reserving through this link allows you to sign waivers ahead of time and get a text reminder the day before class.

FAQs

What is the cost of the class?

This class is sponsored by UAB’s Center for UAB’s Center for Engagement in Disability Health and Rehabilitation Science (CEDHARS) and is FREE for participants.

Where is the class?

UAB WHARF (Wellness, Health And Research Facility), located on the Lakeshore Foundation campus,

3810 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209

Do I need to be familiar with PWR! Moves?

No! Our goal for this class is to educate and empower you with knowledge about this powerful exercise program utilizing large-amplitude movement to improve motor function so you can stay active and independent!

Can I participate if I have exercise limitations or orthopedic issues?

This is a group class but modifications are given for all exercises in order to allow everyone to participate to the best of their ability. With that in mind, you will need to self monitor and request modifications as needed.

Do I have to attend every class?

No, you are able to sign up for classes individually based on your availability.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Please contact Vanessa Kaczmarek with questions about the class. You can contact her at 941-539-4395 or by email at vanessa@neuroactivetherapywellness.com

You can also fill out the form below and Vanessa will reach out to you.

Find Out More

Fill this out and Vanessa will reach out to you to help you decide which class is a good fit and to provide more information.