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Join today for just $39.99/month and unlock everything we have to offer!
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‍Get unlimited access to over 100 virtual and live workouts designed specifically for individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease and other movement challeges. We’d love to welcome you into our family.

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ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, HELP US REACH EVERYONE!

At the Center for Movement Challenges, we believe in the power of movement to transform lives, particularly for those living with Parkinson's disease. We make a difference every day. For over a decade we have successfully provided innovative programs, compassionate care, and a supportive community to help individuals regain strength, independence, and hope. From specialized exercise classes, to tele-health, to personalized therapies and emotional support, we empower people nationwide to face the challenges of Parkinson's with resilience and confidence. Our classes are accessible in-person, live virtual and online, with the reach of ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, FOR EVERYONE!

But we can’t do it alone. Your donation directly fuels these life-changing efforts, giving individuals the tools to slow disease progression, improve motor and non-motor symptoms, reclaim their quality of life and pursue their passions. As a 501 (c) *(3) all donations are fully tax deductible.*

**Be the Difference**

When you donate to the Center for Movement Challenges, you’re investing in more than a program—you’re investing in people. Your contribution helps us provide accessible, high-quality programs and services to those in need, ensuring cost is never a barrier to care. With your support, we can expand our reach, engage in groundbreaking research, and create new opportunities for healing and growth. Please reach inside your hearts and donate. Be the difference! Together, we can break down barriers and offer hope to thousands affected by Parkinson's. Help us give the gifts of friendship, support and LIFE nationwide, gifting people living with Parkinson’s the tools to live the best life possible to its fullest potential.

Join us in this vital mission—your generosity can change lives today.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Denise Formisano

CFMC CEO

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Gentle Yoga with Coach Mark

A mindful and accessible yoga session.

Introduction

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Coach Mark Bodner introduces a 20-25 minute gentle yoga session for beginners and those with movement challenges.
Yoga is recommended to be practiced barefoot for safety and traction.

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Preparation

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Use a sturdy, armless chair without wheels for support.
Equip yourself with a non-slip yoga mat.
Prioritize comfort over pain—no pain, no pain!

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Guidelines

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Differentiate between therapeutic discomfort and pain.
Modify poses according to your body’s needs.
Take breaks if breathing becomes difficult.

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Centering and Breathing

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Begin seated, focusing on posture and breath.
Relax the body from head to toes.
Tune into the breath without forcing it.

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Warm-Up Movements

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Stretch arms overhead with interlaced fingers.
Perform gentle forward bends, first seated, then standing.

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Yoga Poses

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Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
- Stand tall with feet together or hip-width apart.
- Engage thighs, lift chest, and relax shoulders.
Forward Folds and Lunges
- Alternate between gentle forward bends and lunges.
- Use the chair for stability as needed.
Mini Sun Salutations
- Combine forward folds, lunges, and a modified plank for a flowing sequence.
Tree Pose (Vrikshasana)
- Balance on one leg with modifications for foot placement.
- Use the chair for support if needed.
Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)
- Stretch to the side, keeping legs strong and aligned.
- Use the chair for support or balance.
Warrior Poses (Virabhadrasana I & II)
- Perform standing lunges with arms extended.
- Maintain alignment and stability using the chair.
Side Angle Pose (Utthita Parsvakonasana)
- Deepen the stretch along the side body with modifications.

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Relaxation and Closing

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Finish with a wide-legged forward bend, resting on the chair if needed.
Optionally, recline in Shavasana (Corpse Pose) for relaxation.
Conclude with seated meditation, focusing on gratitude.

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Final Words

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End the practice by acknowledging gratitude.
Namaste from Coach Mark Bodner.

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Key takeaways

Yoga should be barefoot for better stability.
Always prioritize comfort over pain in poses.
End practice with gratitude and relaxation.

Yoga

View all videos

Advanced Yoga for Flexibility and Balance with Coach Haley

Beginners Yoga with Coach Haley

Floor Yoga with Coach Mark

Want To See More?

Access 100+ Online Training Videos and Live Coaching

Perfect for people with PD & other movement disorders who want to Get Moving Anywhere, Anytime!

Unlimited On-Demand Online Access to 50+ Exercise Classes, Workouts & Wellness Classes For All Ability Levels - Sitting & Standing Formats with Step-by-Step Instructions.
Extensive Online PD Exercise Classes Library updated weekly, Available 24/7 - Boxing, Yoga, Meditation, Occupational Therapy, Optimizing Movement, Nutrition, Stretching & Caregiver Classes!
Research-proven Exercises, Therapies & Educational Workshops for Movement Disorders to Slow Disease Progression, Lessen Symptom Severity, Enhance Safety, and Encourage Independence.
LIVE Virtual Boxing for Parkinson's exercise classes twice a week - Monday and Wednesday at 10am EST

$39.95 / month

What is CFMC Online?

CFMC Online is a virtual platform offering specialized exercise programs, wellness services, and resources designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s and other movement disorders, available anytime and anywhere.

Who can participate in CFMC Online classes?

CFMC Online is open to anyone living with Parkinson’s or similar movement challenges, as well as their caregivers, providing accessible options for all fitness levels.

What types of classes are offered through CFMC Online?

CFMC Online features a variety of classes including boxing, yoga, stretching, and strength training, all led by trainers experienced in movement disorders.

Do online exercises also help with mental health?

Yes. Online exercise programs provide mood-boosting effects, reduce anxiety and depression, and help people feel more in control of their condition.

What makes online exercise more accessible than in-person classes?

Online programs can be done anytime, anywhere, and usually cost less than traveling to a gym or clinic. They remove barriers to participation such as the need for transportation, which is especially important for people with mobility challenges, work, travel and family schedules.

Online programs bridge the gap, making CFMC’s Exercise Programs and Wellness Services available 24/7 ANYTIME ANYWHERE. This is particularly important for the underserved and under sourced who otherwise would have little or no access to these tools allowing them to live longer and better lives, to their fullest potential.

Are CFMC online exercises safe for people with Parkinson’s?

Yes, especially since the programs are designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s. All instructors are required to be Parkinson’s certified. Many classes offer modifications and low-impact options. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting.

Can CFMC online exercise programs help people with Parkinson’s feel less isolated?

Absolutely. CFMC’s LIVE Virtual sessions with dynamic instructors, provide community support and encouragement, which is vital for mental well-being.

Do online exercises help slow down Parkinson’s progression?

While exercise cannot stop Parkinson’s, research shows that consistent physical activity can slow the progression of motor symptoms, improve overall function, and enhance quality of life.

Which CFMC online classes help improved balance?

- Parkinson’s often affects balance, making people more prone to falls.
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- Exercises such as yoga, and balance drills taught in Optimizing Movement classes (like standing on one foot or shifting weight side to side) help strengthen stabilizing muscles.
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- Online programs allow patients to practice safely at home- CFMC suggests using a sturdy chair or wall for support.
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- Better balance increases confidence in daily activities such as walking, turning, or standing from a chair.

Do CFMC’s Optimizing Movement classes increase strength?

Muscle weakness can worsen mobility issues and fatigue in Parkinson’s.

Strength training—using body weight, resistance bands, or light weights—builds muscle endurance.

Stronger muscles help participants move more easily, support joints, and reduce the risk of injury.

Optimizing Movement classes are offered at different levels, standing and seated.

Which CFMC classes help achieve greater flexibility and reduces rigidity?

Rigidity (stiffness in muscles) is one of the hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s.

CFMC offers stretching routines, yoga, and mobility exercises to improve joint flexibility.

Improved flexibility helps with everyday tasks, such as reaching, dressing, and bending down.

Online guided stretching ensures participants move in a controlled and safe way.

How do CFMC’s online videos help achieve better coordination?

Parkinson’s can make coordinated movements, like walking and turning, more difficult.

Exercises that involve rhythm, sequences, or dual-task training enhance coordination. These are particularly incorporated into CFMC’s boxing videos

Many online programs use step-by-step routines, which help retrain the brain’s motor pathways. Every video has step-by-step instructions and key takeaways to guide you most accurately and beneficial through your workout. These are very beneficial when printed and used by caregivers for participants who need physical and cognitive assistance.

Better coordination means smoother, more controlled movements and reduced risk of falling.

Do CFMC’s online Optimizing Movement videos include exercises to improve Gait & Walking?

Parkinson’s often causes shuffling steps or “freezing” while walking.

CFMC’s online exercise classes incorporate Gait training exercises which help retrain walking patterns.

CFMC’s online Optimizing Movement videos focus on preventing stooped posture, teaching balance and posture, and large movements, each of which influences proper walking.

Great effort should be made to maintain proper walking, as it leads to greater independence, safer mobility and less falls.

Can CFMC’s online exercise classes improve fatigue and enhance endurance (stamina)?

Fatigue is a common complaint among people with Parkinson’s.

Aerobic exercises incorporated into CFMC’s exercise videos increase cardiovascular fitness and stamina.Online classes encourage gradual progression, helping participants build energy without overexertion.

Fatigue is exacerbated by sleep loss. Sleep issues are common with PD. Exercise often improves sleep; more sleep can effectively reduce fatigue.

More endurance allows patients to enjoy daily life with less fatigue.

Do CFMC’s online videos include exercises for motor symptom management?

Exercise doesn’t cure Parkinson’s, but it can improve slowness (bradykinesia), stiffness, and tremors.

Regular practice stimulates the brain, supporting better motor control.

CFMC’s online platforms include physical therapists, occupational therapists and neurologist-recommended exercise routines tailored for Parkinson’s.

Do CFMC’s online videos include skills training?

CFMC’s online platforms include videos primarily intended for caregivers, such as, Sit-To-Stand, and Fall Prevention and Recovery.

Do CFMC’s online platform include Speech?

CFMC offers LIVE Virtual Speech Maintenance classes that help improve and maintain voice volume and projection, articulation and clarity, swallowing functions, facial masking, drooling, and cognitive function.

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