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Stronger Steps: Parkinson’s Introductory Exercise Program

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6-Session Starter Package

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This introductory program is designed to evaluate, initiate, and support a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease. It includes a thorough assessment, guided exercise sessions, and a follow-up reassessment to track progress.

Stronger Steps is a targeted exercise treatment program for individuals living with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease. Grounded in the latest neuroscience and kinesiology research, including Dr. Becky Farley’s work (PWR!Moves®) on whole-body amplitude training and the Exercise4BrainChange™ principles, this program pairs functional mobility training with proven motor learning strategies.

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Stronger Steps is designed as a first step to making exercise a sustainable part of daily life while also empowering you with the tools to slow motor deterioration and promote neuroplasticity.

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Research shows that intensive, task-specific, high-effort exercise can:

  • Slow motor symptom progression

  • Improve movement amplitude (big, purposeful motion)

  • Enhance balance and gait

  • Boost cognitive engagement and mood

  • Improve quality of life and confidence

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By combining amplitude-based functional movements with neuroplasticity principles, Stronger Steps goes beyond general fitness to deliver meaningful, long-term benefits.

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Important Note: Parkinson’s Disease is a lifelong journey — one that you didn’t choose, but one you don’t have to walk alone.

Having consistent support is essential. I strongly encourage both you and a care partner (spouse, family member, close friend, or care aid) to participate in most, if not all, sessions.

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Together, we’ll build a supportive environment that helps you stay motivated, feel encouraged, and continue moving toward your best possible quality of life.

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Contact Marina
Book a Consultation at Ridgeline Health

Session Breakdown

1. Initial Phone Consultation

Duration: 30 minutes

This call allows us to get to know each other and ensure the program is a good fit for your individual needs.

What to Expect During the Call:

  • Review of your online intake form (or assistance with completing it)

  • Review of your medical and health history

  • Conversation about how Parkinson’s Disease is currently affecting your daily life

  • Discussion of your general personal goals for this program

  • Overview of Stronger Steps program, expectations, and structure

  • Information about obtaining exercise clearance from your family physician if required

  • Talking about first steps to take to make exercise part of your daily life

This call is a no-pressure opportunity to ask questions and learn more about how exercise can support your health and quality of life.​

2. Initial Assessment

Duration: 1 hour

Your first session will focus on establishing a baseline and building the foundation of your care plan.

Includes:

  • Education on the benefits of Parkinson’s-specific exercise and why exercise now needs to be an integral part of your daily routine. How might this look for you?

  • Functional assessments (based on your goals), which may include:

    • Functional movement screening with cognitive components

    • Balance and posture analysis

    • Strength and mobility evaluation

  • If time permits, introduction to foundational PWR!Moves® exercises to identify key movement challenges, preferred cueing techniques, and your starting point for training

  • Goal setting and discussion of your priorities

3. First Exercise Session

Duration: 1 hour

This session introduces your customized care plan, developed from your assessment results.
I’ll guide you through each exercise with coaching and cueing to ensure proper form and maximum benefit. It is important for your care partner to attend so they also have an idea of how the exercises should be optimally performed.

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4 & 5. Follow-Up Exercise Sessions

Duration: 45 minutes each

These sessions reinforce and refine your routine.
Includes:

  • Technique correction and progression

  • Incorporation of dual-task training (cognitive + physical)

  • Adjustments to exercise intensity, complexity, or variety based on your response and comfort

  • Strategies to support at-home practice

6. Reassessment

Duration: 1 hour

Scheduled 5–8 weeks after your initial session to reflect real-life implementation of your home program.

Includes:

  • Repeat of key assessments and some intake assessment questions

  • Comparison of performance and mobility improvements

  • Discussion of what is working and what needs adjusting

  • Updated exercise recommendations and long-term support options

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