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People with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders have a new ally when it comes to combating their condition.

Trinity Health Exercise Physiology has begun a new exercise program called Delay the Disease™, a fitness and mobility program aimed specifically at improving the physical, mental, and emotional realities of patients with Parkinson’s disease.

Tanya Gillen, ACE, a certified personal trainer, completed a Delay the Disease certification course in July 2919. She says the program, developed by OhioHealth, consists of symptom-specific exercises designed to optimize function and restore as much independence as possible to patients experiencing the typical symptoms of tremor, muscle rigidity, and impaired balance.

“We emphasize big movements, coordination, and multi-tasking,” Gillen said. “My experience working with Parkinson’s patients reinforced my conviction that regular exercise is the key to managing the disease and living a better life.”

Delay the Disease classes started September 3, 2019 and runs for 12 weeks each Tuesday and Friday at the Minot Family YMCA. The program includes two class levels:  a basic level scheduled at 11 a.m. and an intermediate level that will be held at 2 p.m.  Program cost is $60 for YMCA members and $90 for non-members.

Gillen says 17 people registered for the program, and she hopes more will participate. “I’m excited to see how this program will impact people,” she said.  “After completing the training, the first thing I said when I got back to Minot was ‘This has the potential to change people’s lives’.”

People who wish to sign up or who need more information may contact Trinity Health’s Exercise Physiology Department at 701-857-5626.