Fitness for PD Program

The Fitness for PD program at Long Island University (LIU) is a free exercise class specifically designed for individuals with Parkinson's Disease (PD). This program aims to help participants build physical fitness and skills in a supportive and challenging environment.

Program Description

The program is developed in collaboration with the Brooklyn Parkinson Group (BPG) and is tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with PD. The exercise philosophy focuses on challenging each individual to go beyond their capabilities while ensuring accessibility and safety. The program includes a mix of exercises that vary from day to day, targeting balance, strength, flexibility, agility, and endurance over a 10-week period.

Schedule

Classes are held twice a week for 10-week sessions, with three sessions per year:

• Late September to December
• February to April
• Mid-May to July Classes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:45 am to 11:15 am.

Staff and Participants

The program is led by experienced staff, including Tracye Rawls-Martin, Professor of Exercise Science, and Rebecca (Becky) States, Director and Professor of Physical Therapy. Undergraduate students in the health professions also participate as student assistants, gaining valuable experience working with individuals with physical limitations.

Research and Outcomes

Research on the Fitness for PD program has been published in various academic journals, highlighting its effectiveness and benefits for participants. Studies have shown that the program can help improve physical functioning, reduce symptoms, and enhance overall well-being for individuals with PD.

Participant Impressions

Participants have reported positive experiences and outcomes from the program, citing improvements in their physical abilities, motivation, and sense of community. Quotes from participants include:

• "I feel terrific on the days that I exercise. I can walk home from here, and almost have a normal gait all the way home."
• "Being in a community makes a huge difference. The community that this whole group has is amazing."
• "I feel we're all striving to live as healthy a life as we can, so everyone kind of supports each other and gives you the motivation just to keep doing it."

Academic Programs

The School of Health Professions at LIU offers a range of academic programs, including:

• BA Psychology
• BS Exercise Science & Wellness
• BS Health Science
• BS Respiratory Care
• BS Social Work
• BS/MS Occupational Therapy
• Master of Social Work
• MA Psychology
• MS Exercise Science
• MS Marriage and Family Therapy
• MS Mental Health Counseling
• MS Physician Assistant
• MS Speech-Language Pathology
• MS ED School Psychology
• PhD Clinical Psychology
• Doctor of Physical Therapy
• Doctorate of Social Work
• Advanced Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy
• Advanced Certificate in Mental Health Counseling

Facilities and Centers

The School of Health Professions is home to various facilities and centers, including:

• Aquatic Physical Therapy Program
• Common Ground Program
• Fitness for PD
• GranCare Program

Student Organizations and Faculty

The School of Health Professions has various student organizations and a faculty composed of experienced professionals in their fields.

---

Overview:

• Founded in 1926 as the Brooklyn Law School
• Expanded to become Long Island University in 1954
• Currently has 6 campuses across New York State
• Enrolls over 20,000 students
• Notable achievements:
  • Ranked among the top 200 universities in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report
  • Recognized for its strong programs in business, education, and health sciences
  • Home to the Arnold & Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, one of the largest pharmacy schools in the country

---

Student Life:

Extracurricular Activities:

Over 200 student clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, social, and recreational groups

Clubs:

Examples include the Student Government Association, the Black Student Union, and the International Student Association

Sports Teams:

NCAA Division I athletics in 16 sports, including basketball, football, and soccer

• Student Support Services:

  • Academic Advising
  • Career Counseling
  • Health and Wellness Center
  • Counseling and Psychological Services

• Campus Facilities:

  • Modern academic buildings
  • State-of-the-art athletic facilities
  • Student centers with dining, recreation, and study spaces
  • On-campus housing available at most campuses

---

Academics:

• Academic Resources:

  • Over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs
  • Faculty of over 1,000 full-time and part-time professors
  • Research centers and institutes in various fields

• Teaching Methodologies:

  • Traditional lectures
  • Small group discussions
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • Online and hybrid courses

• Academic Support Services:

  • Tutoring
  • Writing Center
  • Math Lab

• Unique Academic Programs or Initiatives:

  • Honors College
  • Global Studies Program
  • Experiential Learning Program

---

Top Reasons to Study Here:

Reputation:

Ranked among the top 200 universities in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report

Specialized Facilities:

State-of-the-art facilities for health sciences, business, and education

Industry Connections:

Partnerships with leading companies and organizations

Notable Alumni:

Includes politicians, business leaders, and entertainers, such as former New York City Mayor David Dinkins and actor Alec Baldwin

---

Services:

Counseling:

Counseling and Psychological Services provides individual and group counseling, as well as crisis intervention

Health:

Health and Wellness Center offers medical care, vaccinations, and health education

Housing:

On-campus housing available at most campuses, including traditional dorms, apartments, and townhouses

Library Resources:

Over 1 million volumes in the university libraries, as well as access to online databases and research tools

Technology Support:

IT Help Desk provides technical assistance and support for students

Career Development:

Career Services offers resume writing, interview preparation, and job search assistance