Local Spotlight: The Parkinson’s Exercise and Wellness Center

This week we wanted to spotlight a local organization and wonderful resource: The Parkinson’s Exercise and Wellness Center (PEWC). Founded in 2019, the Parkinson’s Exercise and Wellness Center is the first facility of its kind in the Kansas City area providing targeted exercise programs for those struggling with Parkinson’s Disease. They offer rigorous exercise programs like Rock Steady Boxing and Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery (PWR!Moves) that address their symptoms. There are also programs like Movement & Mobility that focuses on improving range of motion, coordination, and balance. There is even a unique program called PARTE (Parkinson’s: Art of Expression) which utilizes drama-based exercises to target the motor and nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. From low-impact Mat Pilates class to energetic Movin’ & Shakin’ dance class, these programs offer a wide variety of exercises targeted at addressing their symptoms.

Sarrisa Curry is the President and Head Coach of PEWC. While working as a personal trainer at Title Boxing Club, she began working with people with Parkinson’s Disease. This inspired her to co-found Rock Steady Kansas City in 2015. Her vision encompassed more than just Rock Steady Boxing, so she founded the PEWC as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization led by a board of certified trainers and members with Parkinson’s Disease. Her trainers offer in-person classes as well as virtual classes for those more comfortable exercising in the comfort of their own home.

They offer an unlimited monthly membership, which includes access to over thirty classes per week at $140 per month. They also offer drop-ins for $25 each class. Regardless of your financial situation, the PEWC is able to subsidize memberships for those who would otherwise by unable to afford a membership due to the supportive community of the non-profit organization.

The Parkinson’s Exercise and Wellness Center is located at 3665 W. 95th Street, Overland Park, KS 66206. Give them a call at 913-276-4665 to schedule an appointment or stop by the gym to see what they have to offer.

Learn more about Sarrisa and the PEWC here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oo_TubRDCpw.