February 23, 2026, MORRIS, IL – In response to community need, Morris Hospital and the Morris Hospital YMCA have expanded their free Pedaling for Parkinson’s exercise class by adding an additional session. The class is now being offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 1-2 p.m. at the Morris Hospital YMCA, 2200 W. Dupont Ave. The class is free and open to the community without requiring YMCA membership.
Taught by Morris Hospital Wellness staff with support from physical therapy assistants and YMCA Wellness staff, Pedaling for Parkinson’s is designed to help individuals with Parkinson’s disease optimize their physical function by improving their gait, balance, speech, handwriting, and overall endurance. Participants must receive approval from their doctor prior to attending class.
Research conducted at the Cleveland Clinic found that individuals with Parkinson’s can experience a 35 percent reduction in symptoms by riding an indoor stationary bicycle for one hour three days a week. While cycling is not a cure for Parkinson’s disease, there is compelling evidence that shows pedaling a bicycle at a rapid pace may change the life of someone living with Parkinson’s disease.
In addition to Pedaling for Parkinson’s, Morris Hospital and the Morris Hospital YMCA also offer PWR! Moves (Parkinson Wellness Recovery), a research-driven exercise program that focuses on improving functional mobility and strength for people living with Parkinson’s disease through intentional and smooth movements focused on improving everyday actions such as walking, climbing stairs, and turning in tight spaces. PWR! Moves meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00-1:50 p.m. at the YMCA and is also free and open to the community.
Registration is required for Pedaling for Parkinson’s and PWR! Moves by calling the Health & Wellness Director at the Morris Hospital YMCA at 815-513-8080, ext. 517.
In addition to the two exercise classes, Morris Hospital also offers a Parkinson’s Support Group the second Monday of each month from 12:00-12:45 p.m. in the Community Room at the Morris Hospital YCMA. The Parkinson’s Support Group provides an opportunity for individuals who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their spouses, caregivers and loved ones to connect with others who are affected by the neurological disorder. In addition to receiving education from guest speakers, participation in the monthly meetings provides support and socialization. Registration is not required to participate. For more information about the Parkinson’s Support Group, contact Morris Hospital’s Wellness department at 815-705-7364.
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