Mission
Through exercise, education, community, and connection, NeuroFit’s
mission is to provide a gym-like environment in a safe, welcoming space
in which individuals with neurological issues can participate in exercise
classes specific to their diagnosis, attend private or group workout sessions, and receive individualized attention to teach them how to improve their
quality of life, adapt to their new life, and reclaim their independence.
The NeuroFit Gym is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization.
The classes and sessions are run by licensed physical therapists
Amy Bertram and Colleen Schuster. Our goal is to help those
with neurological disorders live healthier lives.
THE
"WHAT SEEMS IMPOSSIBLE TODAY WILL
SOON BECOME YOUR WARM-UP!"
Meet your Coaches
Amy Bertram, PT, DPT
Colleen Schuster, PT, DPT
Amy graduated in 2004 from the University of Cincinnati as a Physical Therapist Assistant. She continued with her studies and obtained her Bachelor degree in 2006, and earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from UC in 2009. Amy states,
“I love neuro because the brain is so complex and intricate that I am always learning something new.” She enjoys working with neurologically involved clients because she can help them regain their life, or teach them how to adapt to their new life. Amy is certified in LSVT Big, Rock Steady Boxing, and Delay the Disease. Her goal is to receive a Specialist Certification in Neurology. She is the owner of Neurofitness, LLC and runs a non-profit organization, The Joe Bertram Foundation. Amy lives in Liberty Township with her two sons and enjoys reading, crocheting, and boxing.
Colleen graduated with her Bachelor degree from St. Louis University in 1991 and completed her Doctorate degree through the University of Montana in 2014. She has worked in a variety of settings, but her favorite clientele are those individuals with neurological disorders. “I have found that individuals with neurological disorders are often the most motivated patients, and they are an inspiration to me as well as other patients in the clinic.” She is NDT trained and certified to coach Rock Steady Boxing, Delay the Disease, and Love Your Brain Yoga for TBI. She is a registered yoga teacher and the owner of Sunflower Strength and Fitness, LLC. Colleen and her husband have three children and they reside in Hamilton. She enjoys reading, crafting, and boxing.
Why are we uniquely qualified to help you?
There are many gyms in the community, but none that address the specific needs of those with neurological disorders. “Patients with neurological disorders often require significant social and economic support because of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial limitations. Despite the high prevalence of disability, there is increasing recognition that services and resources are disproportionately scarce” (Thakur et al, 2016). Amy and Colleen are uniquely qualified in this area due to years of education and experience working with neurologically involved patients. Their passion is to help these individuals be well, stay well, and return to activities they enjoy in the community. Nominal fees are charged so that anyone seeking care is able to receive it. Together, they have seen the difference that a group class can make in the lives of those with neurological disorders. We want to extend our reach to all individuals with neurological disorders including Parkinson's, stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, ALS, and MS in order to offer multiple options for improving their independence and quality of life.
Thakur KT, Albanese E, Giannakopoulos P, et al. Neurological Disorders. In: Patel V, Chisholm D, Dua T, et al., editors. Mental, Neurological, and Substance Use Disorders: Disease Control Priorities, Third Edition (Volume 4). Washington (DC): The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development / The World Bank; 2016 Mar 14. Chapter 5. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK361950/doi: 10.1596/978-1-4648-0426-7_ch5
Workout with us!
Current neuro class offerings include Rock Steady Boxing for PD, Delay the Disease for PD, CogCardio, NeuroBoxing, Chair Yoga, and Neuro Bootcamp and Strength. Individual one on one sessions are available to focus on your needs and goals. Class packages can be used for any class and they never expire. Community classes offered
at the gym include BOYO (boxing/yoga), Strength and Stamina, and Chair Yoga. Hatha Yoga classes are also offered at the gym: see Facebook page for monthly times.
We offer informational gatherings focused on nutrition, meditation, caregiver support, and much more!
The NeuroFit Gym is located at 4155 Tonya Trail, Hamilton, OH 45011. It is convenient to West Chester, Mason, Hamilton, Fairfield, Oxford, Monroe, Trenton, Liberty Township, Middletown, and surrounding communities.
Rock Steady Boxing
RSB classes are held at the NeuroFit Gym
4155 Tonya Trail, Hamilton, OH 45011
Rock steady boxing consists of group boxing designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s Disease. Each class focuses on increasing strength, endurance, balance, fine motor skills and power. Classes are taught by a certified Rock Steady Coach and experienced Physical Therapists with 30+ years of experience working with people who have Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological disorders. Class participants are asked to receive a physician's consent to participate.
We welcome you to observe any class, anytime!
Current RSB class times:
Monday 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Wednesday 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Friday 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Class fees:
1 class / $15.00
15 classes / $200
20 classes / $250
30 classes / $300.00
Delay the Disease
Classes are held at the NeuroFit Gym
4155 Tonya Trail, Hamilton, OH 45011
Delay the Disease™, is a fitness program designed to empower people with PD to take control of the disease with daily exercise. The powerful results of the Delay the Disease exercise program can help participants
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Move about with ease and confidence in a crowd
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Get out of bed or rise from a chair independently
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Improve handwriting
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Dress independently
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Diminish worry that stiffness, slow steps and other symptoms are obvious
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Regain a sense of moving with normality
Class participants are asked to receive a physician's consent to participate.
Class times:
Monday 1:15-2:15 PM
Wednesday 1:15-2:15 PM
Class fees:
1 class / $15.00
15 classes / $200
20 classes / $250
30 classes / $300
SUCCESS STORIES
"Rock Steady has helped my balance and I am more aware of my posture, which is so important to preventing falls.
What I noticed in a relatively short time with boxing was how I regained the rhythm of walking. My affected right side had made my gait awkward and I have enjoyed walking normally for months now. I think that only a trained professional may be able to detect that I have Parkinson's Disease. That was not the case 9 months ago. I feel stronger and more confident in my abilities due to all of the targeted exercises we do in warm up, cool down and hitting the bag (as hard as I can)!" ~Denise
"Rock Steady Boxing with Neurofitness was a pleasant and wonderful surprise. Boxing provides an excellent workout that strengthens your core muscles, your arms and your balance. I have noticed an improvement in my PD, my attitude, and my balance. The instructors (Amy and Colleen) are licensed physical therapists that design programs for each individual's capabilities that are challenging and fun. Also, there is a strong camaraderie with the other participants in the class. We are all facing the same challenges and the boxing improves not only our physical abilities, but enhances our attitude and social interactions. It has been a blessing in my life.” ~KH
"Rock steady has had a large impact on not only exercising the majority of my muscles but also experiencing the trials and successes of new friends who share this disease. Having the knowledge and expertise of physical therapists walking us through the program is huge. No worries. Go at your own pace." ~Jim
"Wow, where to begin. In the six months that I have been a part of The NeuroFit Gym, I have participated in Delay the Disease and Rock Steady Boxing. Because of these programs, I have noticed great improvements. I am stronger and more confident in my ability to do the things I used to. Rather than bending over and shuffling my feet, my posture has improved and I have a normal gait. My balance has improved, making it easier for me to walk up stairs. Additionally, I find more ease in performing daily activities such as putting on a belt and jacket with no assistance. None of this would be possible without the genuine care and dedication of Colleen and Amy. Their knowledge and ability in working with people with neurological diseases has greatly impacted my life, and I am truly thankful." ~Danny
“My husband’s PD diagnosis was a monumental shock! We started looking for medical and alternative help. NeuroFit Gym gives us what we have been looking for. Amy and Colleen are wonderful with lots of smiles for all. This therapy really works and brings enjoyment to my husband. Care partners are welcome to exercise too. We love it!” ~Pat & Dennis
“This program has changed my life. I can do things now that I couldn’t do well one year ago - button my shirt, sign my name, cut meat / salad, drive my car… just to name a few.” Anonymous
