Parkinson’s Programs

 

View Parkinson’s Calendar

The Richard M. Klein Center for Wellness is the hub for all your movement and wellness needs for living with Parkinson’s Disease.  When you live with Parkinson’s Disease, exercise is not only healthy but vital in maintaining balance, mobility, gait, tremor, flexibility, grip strength and motor coordination.

 

Virtual Classes Offered

 

Raise Your Voice – Group Speech Therapy Class:

This virtual class focuses on strength, loudness, and clarity of speech along with education and cognitive exercises. It is provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation. Instructor: Judy Koza, a licensed language speech pathologist. Judy is certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and she is licensed in NJ, PA and DE.

Cost to participate: FREE

Offered most Mondays from 2-3pm. Must register to receive weekly Zoom links. See the weekly schedule to verify.

Contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org to register.

 

Movement & Motivation (Drums):

This virtual exercise class uses simple foot movement patterns and rhythmic drumming to challenge the brain, building and strengthening neuropathways which in turn increases safety in movement. This class is a sit-and-stand format and can be adapted to individual needs. This class is provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation. Instructor: Parkinson’s Connection Head Coach Melanie Montana

Cost to participate: FREE

Offered most Tuesdays from 1-1:45pm. Must register to receive weekly Zoom links. See the weekly schedule to verify.

Offered in-person in the Richard G. Klein Wellness Studio and virtually over Zoom.

Contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org to register.

 

Movement & Motivation (Dance):

This class is offered both in-person (J360) and virtually. Explore your body’s possibilities through music both old and new alike and improve your balance, flexibility, coordination, and gait. An ideal class for those with Parkinson’s and other chronic illnesses. This class is based on the National Program Dance for PD and provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation. Instructor: Patty Palese

Cost to participate: FREE

Offered most Thursdays from 1-1:45pm. Must register to receive weekly Zoom links. See the weekly schedule to verify.

Offered in-person in the Richard G. Klein Wellness Studio and virtually over Zoom.

Contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org to register.

 

Yoga for Parkinson’s:

Regular practice of yoga is an effective way to increase flexibility, balance and improve overall fitness while minimizing the tremors, atrophy, and rigidity associated with Parkinson’s. All levels are welcome. The Tuesday evening session is provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation. The Friday morning class is part of the Parkinson’s Class Pass*. Instructor: Suzanne Polikoff

Free virtual class through Zoom on Tuesdays at 6:30pm.

Contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org to register.

 

Barre for Parkinson’s:

This class is offered both in-person (JFlow) and virtually. This unique fitness program for men and women includes elements of Pilates, ballet, and functional training. This low-impact workout allows you to move at your own pace as you find new ways to enhance your balance and endurance. This class is provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation. Offered Saturday afternoon as part of the Parkinson’s Class Pass*. Instructor: Parkinson’s Connection Head Coach Melanie Montana

Cost to participate: FREE

Offered on the following dates in the Richard G. Klein Wellness Studio and virtually over Zoom:

Saturday, February 11

Saturday, February 18

Saturday, February 25

Saturday, March 4

Saturday, April 22

Saturday, April 29

Saturday, May 6

Saturday, May 13

Contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org to register.

 

(New) Gyrokinesis for Parkinson’s:

This movement modality (offered in-person and over Zoom) increases the flexibility of the spine and joints while expanding and elongating the body. Gentle enough for a non-mover but easily adapted for active individuals as well. Caregivers are encouraged to join! This class is provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Cost to participate: FREE

Offered on the following dates in the Richard G. Klein Wellness Studio and virtually over Zoom.

Saturday, January 7

Saturday, January 14

Saturday, January 21

Saturday, January 28

Saturday, March 18

Saturday, March 25

Saturday, April 1

Saturday, April 8

Saturday, May 27

Saturday, June 3

Saturday, June 10

Saturday, June 17

Contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org to register.

 

Bring It Up:

Once a month, Parkinson’s Connection members are invited to assemble online for a unique community experience. With the help of facilitator Coach Melanie, members share thoughts, ideas, and information unique to the Parkinson’s experience. Members gain connection and support to fight back mentally as well as physically. This program is provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Cost to participate: FREE

Thursday, January 19

Thursday, February 16

Thursday, March 16

Thursday, April 20

Thursday, May 18

Thursday, June 15

Contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org to register.

 

Several programs of the JCC Parkinson’s Connection program are supported by a community grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.

 

Parkinson’s Connection Rock Steady Boxing Virtual Programming

 

Our virtual RSB membership gives participants access to seven live Rock Steady Boxing classes each week AND a library of recorded classes that can be accessed any time. New participants will need to undergo a virtual assessment before participating in classes ($50). The virtual subscription fee is $19 for Katz JCC Full Facility Members and $29 for guests. Instructors: multiple

All participants, whether subscribed to the paid virtual membership or not, are invited to participate in any of the free live classes each week held through Zoom, including Speech Therapy group class on Mondays and Movement and Motivation on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

 

Rock Steady Boxing:

Our virtual RSB membership gives participants access to live Rock Steady Boxing classes each week as well as an on-demand library of recorded classes that can be accessed any time.
A virtual assessment ($55) is mandatory before starting virtual Rock Steady Boxing classes. If you are already assessed for in-person classes no additional assessment is necessary.
Virtual Rock Steady Boxing Monthly Subscription:
$19 per month/JCC Members

Participants must also be enrolled in the Parkinson’s Connection virtual membership to participate. For more information about this program, please contact Megan Matis at mmatis@jfedsnj.org

 

For more information on any of the virtual Parkinson’s programs, please contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org

 

In-Person Parkinson’s Connection Programs

We are pleased to offer many in-person programs to improve your fitness and function, as well as your overall quality of life, including:

 

Pedaling for Parkinson’s – New classes scheduled!

This indoor cycling class is specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Riding an indoor, stationary bicycle has been shown to reduce Parkinson’s motor symptoms by as much as 35%

Mondays / Time: 12:30-1pm

Wednesdays / Time: 9:45- 10:30am

Instructor: Melanie Montana

This class has a rolling admission – you may join in at any time.

Cost: $10/1 class, $40/5 classes, $60/10 classes / Purchase a class card for class through Mindbody.  Class card packages can be used for Pedaling for Parkinson’s or Yoga for Parkinson’s

Questions? Contact Megan Matis at mmatis@jfedsnj.org or 856-485-9481 x1151

 

 

Let’s Take a Break – New classes scheduled!

Caregiver Support Group- Free for those caring for loved ones with Parkinson’s Disease

Join others who understand the ups and downs of being a care partner to someone
with Parkinson’s Disease. This group will provide a forum to discuss and better

understand PD symptoms while also offering effective coping strategies

and tips for managing daily life.

Registration preferred / Walk-ins Welcome

When: Wednesdays, 2-3pm 

Where: Room 201 (Teen Lounge)

Winter/ Spring 2023 Meetings:

1/11/23
1/25/23
2/8/23
2/22/23
3/8/23
3/22/23
4/12/23
4/26/23
5/10/23

Questions? Contact Megan Matis at mmatis@jfedsnj.org or (856) 367-6181 x1151

 

Yoga for Parkinson’s – New classes scheduled!

Regular practice of yoga is an effective way to increase flexibility, balance and improve overall fitness while minimizing muscle spasms, atrophy, and rigidity associated with Parkinson’s.

Regular yoga practice offers many benefits including: induces relaxation, lessens or alleviates tremors, reduces muscle tension and other pains, diminishes rigidity, improves balance and coordination, sleep, muscle strength and motor control, enhances focus, concentration and alertness, increases flexibility, creates deeper, easier breathing, provides tools to stand tall with great posture, balances emotions, calms the mind, creates a peaceful spirit. All levels are welcome.Taught by Sue Polikoff

Fridays starting May 6 / Time: 11:30am-12:30pm

This class has a rolling admission – you may join in at any time.

Location: Richard Klein Studio

Cost: $10/1 class, $40/5 classes, $60/10 classes / Purchase a class card for class through Mindbody. Class card packages can be used for Pedaling for Parkinson’s or Yoga for Parkinson’s

Questions? Please contact Megan at mmatis@jfedsnj.org or (856) 367-6181 x1151 for more information.

This program is supported by a community grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.

 

Pilates for Neurological Disorders – New classes scheduled!

This class is specifically designed for those with MS, Parkinson’s and other neurological disorders. Benefits include improved strength, balance and flexibility. Basic Pilates positions will be taught using related apparatus in a supportive, gentle and fun environment

JPilates Studio • $120/Full Facility Member, $150/Basic Member & Guest

For upcoming session dates, contact Megan at mmatis@jfedsnj.org for more information.

 

Rock Steady Boxing

The first initiative of its kind, Rock Steady Boxing is designed specifically for those with Parkinson’s Disease. Using exercises adapted from boxing training, participants train to increase endurance, agility, strength and coordination.

An in-person assessment package ($85) is mandatory before starting Rock Steady Boxing classes and includes boxing gloves, quick wraps in a complimentary backpack.
Drop-In Class: $20/JCC Members and Guests

Registration is through Mindbody.

Classes might be limited on size depending on class level.

Purchase an 8 class pass in Mindbody to participate!
JCC Members: 8 class pass/$120 • Guests: 8 class pass/$150

Please contact Megan Matis at mmatis@jfedsnj.org for more information.

 

Movement & Motivation

Movement & Motivation Drums & Dance classes are held on a weekly basis virtually through Zoom.

Explore your body’s possibilities through music both old and new alike and improve your balance, flexibility, coordination and gait. An ideal class for those with Parkinson’s and other chronic illnesses. This class is based on the National Program Dance for PD.

Movement & Motivation (Drums)
– This class This class (offered in-person in the Richard G. Klein Wellness Studio and virtually over Zoom) uses patterns and rhythm to challenge the brain, building and strengthening neuropathways to increase safety in movement. Offered with sitting and standing options, this class is adaptable to all levels. This class is provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.
– offered most Tuesdays from 1-1:45pm. Must register to receive weekly Zoom links. See weekly schedule to verify.

Movement & Motivation (Dance) – This class (offered in-person in the Richard G. Klein Wellness Studio and virtually over Zoom) will help you explore your body’s possibilities and improve your balance, flexibility, coordination, and gait. An ideal class option for those with Parkinson’s and other chronic illnesses. This class is provided free of charge through a generous grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.
– offered most Thursdays from 1-1:45pm. Must register to receive weekly Zoom links. See weekly schedule to verify.

Cost: Free and open to the community

This program is supported by a community grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.

 

Please contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org for more information.

 

Private Training

Select private training for Rock Steady Boxing, Pedaling for Parkinson’s, Movement and Motivation, Raise Your Voice or personal training in our Fitness Center.

Dates and times will be set by your trainer.

One-on-One Half Hour Training: 1 session: $40 • 5 sessions: $190 • 10 sessions: $360 • 20 sessions: $680
One-on-One Hour Training: 1 session: $55 • 5 sessions: $260 • 10 sessions: $495 • 20 sessions: $935

For more information, please contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org for more information.

 

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

The Parkinson’s Connection needs volunteers for various programs such as Rock Steady Boxing, Pedaling for Parkinson’s and more. Training is provided and volunteers will need to attend a brief 15 minute orientation prior to starting.

Various dates and times are available

Please contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.org for more information.

 

Parkinson’s Connection Service/Mitzvah Project

Are you looking for a service or mitzvah project? The Parkinson’s Connection program at the Katz JCC offers a great opportunity for your teens to volunteer, raise funds or donate funds and equipment to our programs.

For more information, please contact Megan Matis mmatis@jfedsnj.orgfor more information.

 

Several programs of the JCC Parkinson’s Connection program are supported by a community grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Many of our Parkinson’s programs are offered for free or reduced costs to the participants.  Donations from families, friends and others help to greatly offset expenses to this program.

If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to the JCC Parkinson’s Program, please click on the button below or please contact Nancy Caporusso at ncaporusso@jfedsnj.org or (856) 367-6181 x1267.

Make a Donation to Parkinson’s Connection

 

 

For more information, contact Megan Matis at mmatis@jefsnj.orgor call (856) 367-6181 x1151.

 

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Wednesday, April 5 beginning at 8AM the front entrance will be closed. Please access the building using the pool fence gate. Front handicap parking spots will also be closed off for the day