World's Largest Core Fitness Class

On Friday September 18, Parkinson's NSW will attempt a Guinness World Record to hold the World's Largest Core Fitness Class to raise awareness of Parkinson's disease.  The attempt will take place in Sydney's Martin Place between 12.30pm and 1pm.

To achieve the record, over 300 people (the current record is 283) will take to the area between Pitt and Castlereagh Streets in Martin Place for 30 minutes of fun and fitness led by a qualified team of instructors. 

Miriam Dixon, CEO of Parkinson's NSW said 'We decided to attempt a world record as we need greater awareness of this disease that affects more than 80,000 Australians and their families. We are hoping that we will raise awareness throughout the general public and gain some media attention in a fun and positive way."

"Services for people with Parkinson's receive limited government funding so we rely heavily on donations from the public. It's important to increase understanding about the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and the positive role that exercise can play in relieving symptoms."

"We are lucky in Australia that we have world-class researchers currently investigating the cause of Parkinson's, prevention strategies, symptom treatments and trying to find a cure.  One such expert is Associate Professor Colleen Canning from the University of Sydney who is leading a project funded by Parkinson's NSW that will help us better understand how we can encourage people with Parkinson's to exercise more."

According to Associate Professor Canning, 'People with Parkinson's should ensure they get their daily dose of exercise. Gold standard studies have confirmed that exercise improves mobility and prevents falls and is cost-effective.  So the message is to get moving and stay on your feet.  It is never too early or too late to get started" 

Every participant in the record attempt will receive free giveaways and massage therapists will be offering massages for a donation on the day. There will also be an information marquee staffed by qualified nurses where people can find out more about Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's NSW will be supported in the record attempt by the Australian Institute of Fitness who are providing qualified instructors and massage therapists on the day. Parkinson's NSW invites the general public to participate in the event and have some fun to raise awareness of Parkinson's disease. The event is free to attend.  People who want to participate need to be at the Castlereagh side of Martin Place by 12.15pm to ensure they are counted in the world record attempt.