Regular exercise is just as valuable as medications for those living with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Research has shown that staying in shape can reduce your PD symptoms, and improve mobility, posture, balance and gait. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio, provides a variety of activity choices for people with Parkinson’s disease.
We care about you and want you to stay healthy and active. We have worked hard to create fitness opportunities in a safe and healthy way.
How can you get started with an exercise program?
There are many class options offered below specifically designed and led by instructors who are experts in teaching fitness classes for those with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Remember that safety is most important. Start by talking with your doctor or neurologist to make sure a new exercise program is the right choice for you.
For those participating in our programs, be sure to follow all warnings and instructions provided by the fitness instructor. If you experience any pain or difficulty breathing during the program, stop and consult a physician.
Live Well with Parkinson's Community Classes
October 27, 2025 - January 16, 2026
- Registration: opens September 29, 2025 and closes November 10, 2025
- Cost: One 12-week class is $60; Access to all classes for 12-weeks is $120
Our Class Offerings
Review the Parkinson's Disease Community Class monthly calendar for event updates.
This group exercise class is instructed by a Exercise Physiologist in collaboration with a physical therapist. The class is 60 minutes and includes a variety of activities including: stretching, patient education, increased amplitude functional exercises, forced effort exercise, motor-cognitive and motor-dual tasking, boxing and more.
The 11:30 class will be designed for participants who do not use canes, walkers or wheelchairs and can get up from the floor with a chair for support. The 12:45 class will be designed for participants who need assistance with these tasks.
Location: Healthy New Albany
1st floor studio
150 W. Main St.
New Albany, OH 43054
Sessions: Sessions: Oct 27-Jan 12
Times: 11:30a (advanced) 12:45p (intermediate)
Questions: Email OSULiveWellPD@osumc.edu
This group exercise class is instructed by a Exercise Physiologist in collaboration with a physical therapist. The class is 60 minutes and includes a variety of activities including: stretching, patient education, increased amplitude functional exercises, forced effort exercise, motor-cognitive and motor-dual tasking, boxing and more.
Location: Outpatient Care Dublin
Suite 1F Rehab Department
6700 University Blvd., Dublin, OH 43016
Sessions: Oct 29-Jan 14 (no class 11/26, 12/24 and 12/31 for holidays)
Time: Wednesdays 6:00 pm
Questions: Email OSULiveWellPD@osumc.edu
This 45-minute group exercise class is designed to ease the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. The class includes stretching, movement and breathing practices primarily in a seated position. No yoga experience is necessary.
Location: Virtual; instructor will send the link to your email.
Sessions: Oct 29-Jan 14 (no class 11/26 and 12/24 for holidays)
Time: Wednesdays, 11:30 am
Questions: Email OSULiveWellPD@osumc.edu
This class is a 45-minute guided harmonica practice and play-along online group. The first class session will be a brief introduction and review of the basics of harmonica playing (C diatonic). In subsequent weeks, participants will focus on breath support, oral motor skills, reading harmonica tablature, and playing fun and familiar songs. After registration, you will receive an email with information about how to purchase required materials.
Location: Virtual; instructor will send the link to your email.
Sessions: Oct 30-Jan 15 (no class 11/27, 12/25 and 1/1 for holidays)
Time: Thursdays, 9:00am (45 minutes)
Questions: Email OSULiveWellPD@osumc.edu
Speaking with Purpose is a group exercise class instructed by a board certified music therapist. Participants and their care providers meet for one hour and participate in rhythmic movement exercises, diaphragmatic breathing, voice exercises, singing, cognitive tasks and conversation tasks with a partner. Targeted training for voice and therapeutic singing have been associated with lasting changes for people with Parkinson’s disease.
Location: Virtual; instructor will send the link to your email.
Sessions: Oct 30-Jan 15 (no class 11/27, 12/25 and 1/1 for holidays)
Times: Thursdays, 10:00 am or 2:00 pm
Questions: Email OSULiveWellPD@osumc.edu
This hybrid group exercise class is instructed by a Exercise Physiologist in collaboration with a physical therapist. The class is 60 minutes and includes a variety of activities including: stretching, patient education, increased amplitude functional exercises, forced effort exercise, motor-cognitive and motor-dual tasking, boxing and more. If participating virtually, participants will need access to common household items such as a sturdy chair, shoebox, broom stick, etc. to fully participate. The instructor will email you with the full list of items needed prior to classes starting.
Location: Bob Crane Community Center
3200 Tremont Road, Upper Arlington Room T306A
Virtual option available, instructor will send the link to your email.
Sessions: Oct 31- Jan 16 (No class 11/28 and 12/26 for holidays)
Time: Fridays, 12:30 pm
Questions: Email OSULiveWellPD@osumc.edu
Columbus Dance for Parkinson’s
Columbus Dance for Parkinson’s is a total body dance exercise class that promotes increased mobility, artistry, friendship among participants, and an enhanced appreciation for local dance.
Questions? Email perennialmovementgroup@gmail.com
perennialmovementgroup.com/columbusdanceforparkinsons
Exercise is Medicine
https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/health-and-wellness/exercise-is-medicine
PD Foundation
https://www.parkinson.org/resources-support/online-education/pdhealth#ff
*These classes are not included in OSU registration bundle price.
Contact us
If you have questions on any of our classes, email OSULiveWellPD@osumc.edu