The Marjorie & Lewis Katz JCC in Margate, New Jersey, is excited to announce that two of its Fitness Team Members, Ann Erik and Michelle Barbera, have recently completed their Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery (PWR!Moves) Instructor Certification. This achievement is a testament to the Katz JCC’s commitment to offer specialized fitness programming for those living with Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Ann Erik, Health and Wellness Director, and Michelle Barbera, a Personal Trainer, Health & Wellness Coach, Group Fitness Instructor, and JHIITClub Coach, are now certified to provide PD-specific, neuroplasticity-based exercise programs designed to help people with Parkinson’s disease improve their endurance, strength, agility, and balance.
“We are thrilled to expand our fitness offerings with this new certification,” said Ann Erik. “Parkinson’s disease impacts nearly one million people in the U.S., and with the numbers rising, it is more important than ever to ensure our community has access to safe, effective exercise programs tailored to their needs.”
Starting in January, the JCC will offer weekly grant-based classes for individuals living with Parkinson’s. In the meantime, both Ann and Michelle are available to take on personal training clients who are interested in specialized PD programs. Those interested in learning more or setting up sessions can contact Ann Erik directly at aerik@jccatlantic.org.
The PWR!Moves program, developed by NeuroFit Networks DBA Parkinson Wellness Recovery, is a research-driven approach that integrates neuroplasticity principles to improve the daily lives of people living with Parkinson’s disease. The exercises are designed to maintain and restore motor skills, promoting a better quality of life.
Michelle Barbera, who took part in the certification alongside Ann, expressed her excitement about the new offering: “When Ann asked if I’d like to join her in earning this certification, I was thrilled. Helping people with Parkinson’s manage their condition through targeted exercise is an amazing opportunity. In my current roles, I get to help people help themselves as they improve their health and wellness each week. I love watching class participants and clients move better and become stronger inside and out! To learn how to help those living with Parkinson’s navigate their daily lives better via classes and anything else we can offer here at the J – those are moments I’m looking forward to being a part of!”
The certification aligns with the Parkinson’s Foundation’s recommendations to ensure people with Parkinson’s receive safe and effective exercise programs. Ann and Michelle’s dedication to their training reinforces the JCC’s mission to provide impactful fitness and wellness programs for individuals of all abilities.
