March 31, 2022 By Kiana Woods, CDHD Interdisciplinary Trainee Get your body moving at our Adaptive Movement classes About a year ago, the CDHD began a program to promote movement. It was a collective need and desire in the Moscow community related to how many people want to incorporate physical activity into their day. But not everyone has access to a gym or a welcoming setting where they can enjoy movement. There are many advantages to incorporating movement into your daily routine. We have provided a space to get the benefits and have fun doing it! What is an Adaptive Movement class? My name is Kiana Woods and I took over the adaptive movement classes this spring. These classes are 30-minute sessions for people of all abilities. During each session, I focus on moving the body with exercises that make it easy for everyone to participate. Everyone, including myself, has a great time! I recommend them because of the fun and inclusive atmosphere. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of adding some physical activity to your day. I have always been intrigued by how movement can improve overall health. I have a love for movement and want everyone to have access to it. These classes provide that opportunity for the community. They have also reinforced my passion for movement and helped solidify that physical therapy is the correct career path for me. Join our Adaptive Movement classes This spring’s adaptive movement classes started on January 24. They were held at Moscow's 1912 Center until March 23. After the 23rd, they will move to outdoor location as the weather starts to warm up. Sessions are available twice a week for 30-minutes: Mondays, 12-12:30 pm PT Wednesday evenings, 5-5:30 pm PT Adaptive movement classes are open to all adults of all abilities. It’s a lot of fun and is a wonderful place to meet others around the community. We would love to see more people there! Everyone should try to get movement into their daily routine, and this is a great place to start. If you’d like more information, or you’d like to join, just send me an email at kwoods@uidaho.edu. The importance of movement for physical health Many individuals suffer from poor health due to an inactive lifestyle. This has a lot to do with not having a place or environment to engage in physical activity. Basic access to fitness for many people with varying abilities are limited. As a result, some evidence suggests that inactive living may have a more significant impact on those with disabilities. At The Journal of Disability Policy Studies, Michael Fox states that adults with disabilities are 53 percent more likely than adults without disabilities to be obese. This is a problem that can be prevented by attending classes like Idaho CDHD’s Adaptive Movement classes. The importance of movement for mental health Having inclusive group fitness classes has mental health benefits as well. According to the PMR Journal, Barbara Sahlin did research showing the benefits of individuals who participate in some form of group exercise. Some advantages include more self-confidence, self-esteem and quality of life. These are just a few of the many benefits of adding some movement into your daily routine.