PD Power Hour
Join us for a free whole-body exercise experience 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.
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 Class Dates Per Month
Criteria for both classes:
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
Dynamic Challenge Group:
Generalized class focused on decreasing PD symptoms using PWR! Moves
Offered at 2pm-3pm one Thursday per month. **Changing to Tuesdays 2-3pm in August 2026
2026 Dates:
Thursday, June 18th
Thursday July 16th
Tuesday August 11
Tuesday, September 15th
Tuesday, October 13th
Tuesday, November 10th
Tuesday, December 1st
Dynamic Challenge Group (Focus Class):
More targeted class with a different focus each month such as balance, dual tasking, posture, coordination, lower body strength, etc. Still overall focused on PD symptoms using PWR! Moves
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.
2026 Dates:
Friday, June 26th
Friday, July 24th
Friday, August 28th
Friday, September 25th
Friday, October 30th
Friday, November 20th
Friday, December 18th
Experience a class designed by a neurologic physical therapist to target PD symptoms and help you stay active and independent
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.