Dance for Life is a program for people living with movement and neuromuscular disorders like Parkinson’s, dystonia, MS, and ALS. Classes are led by experienced instructors from UF Health Shands Arts in Medicine and are designed to support well-being through movement, music, creativity, and connection. The class welcomes individuals of all physical abilities—including those who are chair bound—and care partners are welcome to join in or observe.
Program Structure
The program offers one weekly online class and one weekly in-person class—participants may join either or both. No dance experience is needed.
To participate, new individuals must complete a brief pre-registration form and liability waiver (linked below). An optional media consent form is also available for those comfortable being photographed or filmed; images may be used to promote the program.
Values and Goals
Dance for Life is rooted in its core values:
- Welcome: A sense of collegiality and community is encouraged so that every participant feels seen, supported, and included.
- Responsiveness: Instructors tailor each class to the needs, interests, and abilities of participants, offering multiple movement options—including seated variations.
- Choice: Participants are empowered to engage in ways that feel right for their bodies, with the freedom to modify or observe as needed.
From these values, the program aims to:
- Create meaningful opportunities for self-expression, joy, and creativity through movement
- Foster a sense of connection and shared experience among participants and care partners
- Encourage regular engagement in dance as a supportive, enriching part of life
- Promote personal agency, confidence, and comfort in movement—regardless of physical ability
Classes feature a variety of structured movements and choreography designed to support balance, coordination, and strength, while allowing space for creativity and individual adaptation.
Days and Times
In-person
Dance for Life is now available in-person at the Senior Recreation Center (5701 NW 34th Blvd) on Thursdays from 10-11am.
Registration is required for both online and in-person classes using the forms at the bottom of this page.
Virtual
Virtual Dance for Life happens every Wednesday from 1-2pm online via Zoom.
Registration is required.
A Zoom link is sent via email after completing the Waiver of Liability and Attestation and Pre-registration forms at the bottom of this page.
To register as a new participant for in person OR Zoom, complete both forms below.
How to register:
Complete both steps below to register for Dance for Life.
1. Waiver of Liability and Attestation – sign and complete prior to submitting the interest form below
2. Complete the pre-registration interest form below.
Dance for Life Pre-registration Form
***Before submitting the form below, please sign and complete the liability waiver, linked above. Use this form to communicate with Arts in Medicine your interest in participating in Dance for Life. We will be in touch within 3-5 business days.
Watch
On the Wings: PD Crane Dance Project, World Parkinson’s Conference 2019