Beaufort Memorial LifeFit Wellness Center is now offering a nationally-recognized fitness program designed to empower individuals to fight the effects of Parkinson's disease. Using symptom-specific exercises, “Delay the Disease,” developed by OhioHealth, helps participants experience improvement in mobility, posture, balance, handwriting, speech volume, and a reduction in daily functional challenges.<span class="Apple-converted-space">&nbsp;</span>

[caption id="attachment_38355" align="alignright" width="384"]<a href="https://actionclub.site/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_1923.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-38355" src="https://staging.yourislandnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_1923-1024x819.jpg" alt="" width="384" height="455"></a> LifeFit Wellness coach Seth Hunter leads an exercise class. Hunter, who holds a masters degree in exercise physiology from Ohio University, is a certified Delay the Disease instructor.[/caption]

The program was created by David Zid, ACE, APG, OhioHealth director of Movement Disorder and Musculoskeletal Wellness and a leading Parkinson’s fitness specialist, and Jackie Russell, R.N., BSN, CNOR, OhioHealth program development coordinator.

Delay the Disease classes are offered every Monday and Wednesday afternoon in the LifeFit Wellness Center at 990 Ribaut Road. Led by certified Delay the Disease instructor Seth Hunter, classes address the needs of individuals at all fitness levels and stages of Parkinson's disease. Group classes are $5 per class, and registration is required by calling 843-522-5635.

“We are excited to offer this nationally-recognized program locally,” said LifeFit Wellness Services director Kim Yawn. “For a long time we've known that exercise has tremendous benefits for Parkinson's patients, with results that include improved motor and cognitive function, better gait and balance, and decreased depression. We look forward to making a positive impact in these individuals’ lives.”