Pedaling for Parkinson's

PEDALING FOR PARKINSON’S

Pedaling for Parkinson’s™, powered by the Davis Phinney Foundation, is an evidence-based indoor cycling program shown to significantly reduce Parkinson’s symptoms. Designed to help people living with Parkinson’s improve mobility, decrease symptom severity, and connect with a supportive community, the program empowers participants to live well today.

Participants follow a proven protocol that includes a warm-up, 30+ minutes of cycling at a pace that challenges their comfort zone, and a cooldown. When completed regularly, this approach has been associated with meaningful improvements in motor function and overall well-being, with clinical studies demonstrating symptom reductions of up to 35%.

Led by trained instructors and grounded in research by Dr. Jay Alberts at the Cleveland Clinic, Pedaling for Parkinson’s inspires participants to pedal with purpose, build confidence, and celebrate victories—both on and off the bike.

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Who can participate?

Participants who:

• Are 30-75 years old
• Are diagnosed with Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease
• Agree to periodically monitor progress

Parkinson’s patients with the following medical conditions are not eligible for this program:

• Cardiac or pulmonary disease
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
• Uncontrolled hypertension or stroke
• Dementia
• Other medical conditions that make exercise dangerous.

How much does it cost?

Classes are FREE for Y members. For community members, the cost is $5 per class.

How do I sign up?

Before beginning this program, CDYMCA requires that you provide a signed consent form and a medical clearance form. Information and forms are available at your local branch. 

Once our team has your completed forms, a staff member will contact you to schedule an orientation and initial class session.

What do I bring to class?

• Water bottle
• Bike pants or shorts
• Tennis shoes

WHAT IS PARKINSON’S?

Parkinson’s disease is caused by a breakdown in the nerve cells in the brain. The affected nerve cells do not produce enough dopamine, which affects your ability to move the way you want. Tremors, stiff muscles, slow movement, and trouble with balance or walking are all symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

In time, Parkinson’s affects muscles throughout the body, leading to difficulty with swallowing, digestion, facial movements and more.