DPT Students present research at 2023 FPTA Meeting

Image of Dr. Kelly Hawkins, Stephanie Massie, Arielle Grusky, Briana Dentry, Melyn Jessell, and Rachelle Studer Byrnes in front of the poster titled "Promoting physical activity and wellness for individuals with chronic neurological conditions: determining need and designing a student run exercise class" at the FPTA Meeting in September 2023.
Dr. Kelly Hawkins, Stephanie Massie, Arielle Grusky, Briana Dentry, Melyn Jessell, and Dr. Rachelle Studer Byrnes at the 2023 FPTA Meeting

Four students from the class of 2024 presented “Promoting physical activity and wellness for individuals with chronic neurological conditions: determining need and designing a student run exercise class” at the Florida Physical Therapy Association’s Annual Conference.

"Promoting physical activity and wellness for individuals with chronic neurological conditions: determining need and designing a student run exercise class" a poster presentation by Dr. Kelly Hawkins, Stephanie Massie, Arielle Grusky, Briana Dentry, Melyn Jessell, and Rachelle Studer Byrnes

Their project was developed through their Health Promotion and Wellness classwork. In HPW3, the students developed and piloted a group exercise class for individuals with chronic neurological impairment. The students first interviewed individuals in the community, inquiring about barriers and facilitators to physical activity and wellness. They then trialed two potential formats of a group exercise class, including exercises for upper and lower body strength, balance and cardiovascular endurance. The classes were extremely well received by the participants.

We can’t wait to see what they do next!