Fitness Studio in Tallahassee, FL

Our Mission

PD Trailblazers of Sweat Therapy Fitness is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to redefining what it means to live with Parkinson’s disease. As a PD Trailblazer, we lead with strength, hope and purpose-pioneering a better path forward for those living with Parkinson’s and their support partners. Through innovative, compassionate, and community-centered fitness, we are dedicated to improving their quality of life and empowering every participant to move, connect and thrive.

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Our Story how It all began

In 2011, an effort to help individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) began under the leadership of Kim Bibeau, owner and founder of Sweat Therapy Fitness. Kim’s passion for movement and service sparked a mission rooted in compassion, science, and resilience. It began with a simple idea: movement is medicine. With early support from the community, Kim raised over $50,000 for Parkinson’s research at the Florida State University College of Medicine.

The very first class at Sweat Therapy for people with PD involved just six participants on stationary bikes. Then came a pivotal moment. Kim watched a segment on CBS Sunday Morning featuring a groundbreaking program called Rock Steady Boxing (RSB)—a non-contact boxing regimen tailored specifically for people with Parkinson’s. Inspired and determined, Kim traveled to Indianapolis to become certified, bringing RSB to Tallahassee. She has since expanded her training to include PWR! (Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery), trained with the Brian Grant Foundation, and participated in Parte Training—all evidence-based programs designed to improve strength, balance, flexibility, and neuroplasticity for those living with PD.

Today, Sweat Therapy Fitness is recognized as a leading center for PD fitness in Florida, praised by neurologists such as Dr. Enrique Urrea-Mendoza with TMH, and from the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at the University of Florida, who regularly hear from patients about the life changing progress made here in Tallahassee.

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Where We Are Today

At Sweat Therapy Fitness, we offer 22 specialized fitness classes per week tailored for people at all stages of Parkinson’s Disease—from highly mobile participants to those who rely on walkers or wheelchairs.

Led by Kim and Brian Bibeau, our team includes certified instructors, medical partners, and compassionate volunteers. Using the Rock Steady Boxing and PWR! methods—both backed by 15+ years of research and endorsed by the National Parkinson’s Foundation—we empower our members to move better, feel stronger, and live with greater independence.

For many, these classes are the difference between dependence and freedom. To ensure access for all, we offer scholarships to individuals who cannot afford the monthly membership fee.

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Why It Matters: The Science of Movement

According to the National Parkinson’s Foundation, exercise is a vital component in slowing the progression of Parkinson’s Disease.

Exercise helps maintain mobility, balance, and daily function. It can ease non-motor symptoms such as depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and constipation. Those who begin exercising early in the course of the disease (just 2.5 hours per week) experience a significantly slower decline in quality of life. By making fitness a cornerstone of PD treatment, we’re not just extending movement—we’re expanding hope.

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Beyond the Gym: Education & Empowerment

We know that knowledge is just as powerful as movement.

Each year, we host the “Living Your Best Life with Parkinson’s Disease” Speaker Series, a public event featuring nationally recognized experts. Past presenters have included:

• Movement disorder specialists

• Physical and occupational therapists

• Speech-language pathologists

• Dietitians with expertise in neurodegenerative diseases

Quarterly, we also host PD Trailblazer Education Nights with guest speakers and free resources for patients and care partners. In addition, the Florida State University Speech Pathology program conducts quarterly screenings for hearing, swallowing, speech and cognition for our participants.

Monthly, we sponsor the Parkinson’s Disease Support Network (PDSN) meetings where people with Parkinson’s and their caregiver’s get information and resources about living with the disease.

Through our partnership with Florida State University’s Speech Pathology Program, we also provide free weekly speech therapy, one of the most important tools for maintaining communication as the disease progresses.

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Fueling Our Mission: Fundraising and Community Connection

We rely on the generosity of donors, local businesses, and volunteers to bring our programming to life. Fundraising happens year-round through:

• Vendor tables and sponsorship’s at educational events

• Parkinson’s Awareness Month activities and donation drives

• Community outreach and social events such as: Bowling with PD , Potlucks, brunches, and socials

These events build connection, reduce isolation, and offer joy in the face of a difficult diagnosis. They’re not just extras—they’re essential.

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Where We’re Going: The Future

We dream of creating a dedicated space for Parkinson’s programming—a facility designed for safety, accessibility, and comprehensive care.

With your help, we will:

• Replace 10 year old equipment

• Support the monthly Parkinson’s Disease Support Network meetings

• Expand scholarship offerings for underserved populations

• Grow our weekly class schedule to meet rising demand

• Offer even more community wellness events

• Purchase specialized equipment and training tools

• Provide expanded community awareness and education

• Advocate for earlier diagnosis and access to PD-specific exercise

We are trailblazers—pioneering new paths of strength, hope, and community for those living with Parkinson’s. And we invite you to join us.

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Every gift helps someone take another step, throw another punch, believe in another tomorrow. Be a part of the fight!

Send your gift to:

PD Trailblazers of Sweat Therapy Fitness

1122 Thomasville Road

Tallahassee, FL 32303

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