An interview with Zachary Hartman from Peak Parkinson’s Performance on June 28, 2023 by George Ackerman, Ph.D, J.D.
Biography
My name is Zachary Hartman and I am the founder of Peak Parkinson’s Performance. 7 years ago I got the opportunity while working at Midcoast’s Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab to spend a few hours a week at the local YMCA running a Parkinson’s exercise class. I fell in love with the program and helping those in the program. Seeing firsthand the desire and passion of the participants to conquer this disease motivated me. I began researching and studying everything I could about PD and neuroscience. Using my research, I design exercise programs that not only challenge the body but actively engage the brain. These complex movements require the brain, central nervous system and peripheral nervous system to work together. These exercises improve the motor (or movement) pathways from the brain to the muscles. I am so passionate about this work I decided to leave my job working in Cardiac Rehab so I can solely focus on helping those with Parkinson’s. I felt strongly that to many people with PD were getting left behind with little to no support. I wanted to create a place where people could learn, exercise and find consistent support for their PD.
· B.S. of Exercise Physiology from Miami University
· Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist through ACSM
· Certified Master Personal Trainer
· Neurological Corrective Exercise Specialist
· Certified Health Coach
Please tell me a little about your background and what got you involved with awareness.
I friend of mine back in Ohio asked me to volunteer at a Rock Steady Boxing Program in Zanesville, Ohio. I had so much fun and when I moved to Maine and started working in a hospital here, I was asked if I knew anything about exercise for PD. I said yes that I have previously volunteered in a program and would love to create a program here in Maine. Two days a week for 7 years I ran an exercise class for PD at the local YMCA sponsored by the Hospital. Then I felt like the people needed more. Two days a week was not enough so I created a organization fully dedicated to helping those with PD.
Can you tell me more about your organization?
More about Peak Parkinson’s Performance: We are an organization dedicated to bringing online content for those with PD. WE offer 3 exercise classes a week. Classes are recorded and posted on a video platform. We make it so all ability levels can participate in the exercise classes. We also offer monthly education and our discussion groups about a variety of topics. We try to keep our monthly subscription cost nicely affordable. We are much cheaper than other similar programs. We believe in creating a place where people can get a lifetime of support.
What is your passion and how did you get involved in Parkinson’s awareness and hope for a cure?
My passion is helping people. My passion for helping those with PD came from them. I have helped people with all kinds of health issues create exercise programs. Those with PD work the hardest and are so passionate about beating their disease. They inspired me to do more and dedicate my life to helping those with PD.
What type of goals do individuals with Parkinson’s have when working with you?
People who work with me have a deep desire to push their minds and bodies to work hard not only to slow progression but to improve their physical condition. They know they will be cared for but not treated like they are delicate. They know that they have to push themselves beyond what they believe they can do. We also have people that are dedicated to learning as much as they can about the disease and doing everything that’s in their control to not let it slow them down.
What type of training and how long are the programs?
We offer all kinds of trainings we change our schedule weekly. We try to implement a very diverse exercise program that participants get exposed to a lot of different things. From Mixed Martial arts to yoga to weightlifting, to PT, OT, Speech Therapy exercises. WE do a lot of balance, core strength and posture exercises as well. But our calling card is our neuroplasticity work outs that really help the brain continue to grow and develop the stronger area the brain to take over the functions of the damaged parts.
What effect can your programs have on an individual with Parkinson’s?
Our Program can help make those with PD feel stronger, more independent and make daily activities easier. I’ve had clients start with walkers and canes and no longer use them after a few weeks. It also can help them feel better mentally and emotionally as well!
What would you like to see as a future goal for your programs?
We hope to expand one day into doing seminars and work outs all over the country. We’d like to offer daily exercise classes with multiple instructors and multiple live classes a day.
What events do you participate in?
As we are new, we are still looking for events to take part in. I have reached out to some other organizations for collaborative work. In the future will try to get into the Parkinson’s Ride here in Old Orchard Beach Maine.
How does this also assist the caregivers?
Caregivers can participate in the exercise classes as well!
How can someone get in touch? What is your website?
We are an online program, but we are based out of Farmingdale, Maine
Peak Parkinsons Performance Website https://www.peakparkinsonsperformance.com/
Peak Parkinsons Performance | Helping You Reach Your Highest Peak! | Patreon online video platform https://www.patreon.com/user/membership?u=93193387
If you had one final statement or quote you could leave for the Parkinson’s community, what would it be?
For those with PD I will say you are inspiration. I’ve never seen a group of people with a common affliction be so dedicated and determined. Keep fighting, keep working and never stop moving!