Pilates for Parkinson's (Online)

Scientists believe Pilates, a low-impact exercise with high-impact results, helps boost brain-body signaling, which often goes awry in PD.  Pilates focuses on increasing core strength and improving spinal alignment, flexibility and balance, making it particularly helpful in countering PD symptoms.  By improving the mind-body connection, Pilates teaches you how to have better control and awareness over the way your body moves.   Deep breathing techniques improve cardiovascular efficiency and relaxes central nervous system.  Exercises can be done on the mat, and can also be adapted to chair.  Pilates is a great choice for everyone at every age, every ability!  

things to bring

  • Mat
  • Chair
  • Toning ball (1, 2, 3 pounds)
  • Flexband Yoga block

instructor

Photo of the instructor
Susanne Liebich

Susanne Liebich has been a professional dance and certified movement educator, choreographer and program director for over 30 years. As a senior fitness expert, her knowledge includes exercise which enhances and sustains the health of adults of all ages and mobility levels. Her balanced, holistic approach blends traditional, expressive and therapeutic movement to foster overall wellbeing. Her certifications include Dance for PD®, Stott Pilates®, Black Belt Nia®, Moving to Heal® and Total Barre®. She is trained in injury prevention for older adults and individuals with Parkinson’s, MS, osteoporosis and arthritis.

She was one of the first Certified Dance for PD instructors in the world, and her class was featured in the Boston Globe. She is a member of the Emerson Hospital Parkinson’s Disease Committee. Her work includes classes at independent senior, assisted living and memory communities, and hospitals in the Greater Boston area.