Upper Limits will host Parkinson’s climbing night

Image courtesy of Upper Limits Bloomington

BLOOMINGTON, ILL. – Summit Shakers Upper Limits is hosting a Parkinson’s climbing night Monday to engage the community in an event aimed to foster athletic inclusivity. 

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive and neurodegenerative disease that can cause stiffness, slow movements and other issues. Parkinson’s can start with less obvious symptoms, usually on one side of the body, that gets more severe with time. The cause of the disease is unknown.

“By creating this space for folks with Parkinson’s to come and climb safely with folks who are able to belay them, who have tons of experience with that, it not only gives them that exercise that’s very beneficial and helpful in combatting what the disease is doing, but also gives a sense of community and success,” Upper Limits Marketing Manager Andy Peterson said.

After learning that climbing helps those with Parkinson’s, Upper Limits was inspired to host an event for those affected by the disease and their caretakers.

According to the Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation, climbing helps reduce the disease’s symptoms through coordination and strength practice, as well as mood and confidence.

“The smiles that they get, the feeling of success that they get, as well as then helping to reduce tremors…it’s just kind of a holistic approach to give community and health,” Peterson said. 

While the disease affects people differently, the challenges can be severe, causing some to require a wheelchair or have a difficult time doing daily tasks.

To prepare for the event, Upper Limits worked with different clinics and foundations around the area to spread the word for the event. 

“By approaching classes like this and others with an umbrella of inclusivity, how can we make sure that those attending are going to not just be able to climb, but feel successful and come away feeling that this helped them,” Peterson said. 

The event is from 4-5:30 p.m. on Monday Oct. 27, $18 per person. Volunteer opportunities are available by emailing bloomington@upperlimits.com and sign ups are available by visiting upperlimits.com/bloomington