Corporate Fitness and Active Aging

At NIFS, we believe in the power of movement. That’s why our partnership with NuStep has become an integral part of NIFS Pump It for Parkinson’s, a nationwide initiative that raises awareness about Parkinson’s Disease (PD) while inspiring communities to take meaningful steps (literally and figuratively) toward better health.

Every April, during Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Pump It for Parkinson’s unites communities across the nation on a shared mission to highlight the critical role exercise plays in managing PD symptoms. At the heart of this event is the NuStep cross trainer, a machine that has not only become a hallmark of our program but also a gateway for residents to rediscover the joy of movement.

For many residents, the NuStep offers a level of approachability and ease that makes starting or returning to exercise possible. Its seated, low-impact design eliminates the barriers that often discourage seniors from engaging in fitness, especially those managing mobility challenges or chronic conditions.

In one community, a resident who had never stepped foot in the fitness center joined Pump It for Parkinson’s because of a PD diagnosis, and quickly discovered how enjoyable and empowering regular movement could be. Stories like this remind us why the NuStep is so much more than a piece of equipment, but also a bridge to better fitness.

The beauty of Pump It for Parkinson’s is its flexibility. The NuStep serves as the cornerstone of the event, but we encourage communities to build on it in ways that engage their residents and staff:

• Organizing a community-wide 1k walk event.
• Highlighting Group Fitness Classes: From cardio drumming to dance classes, we’ve seen communities get creative by adding group activities that complement the NuStep challenge.
• Inclusive Opportunities: Every step counts when building awareness, so we offer step-conversion charts and alternative activities like walking, biking, or using the elliptical trainer.

Parkinson’s Disease affects more than 10 million people worldwide, including many in the senior living communities we serve. Exercise has been shown to slow the progression of PD symptoms, improve balance and coordination, and enhance overall quality of life. By combining education with action, Pump It for Parkinson’s sheds light on these benefits while fostering a culture of wellness and inclusivity.

Throughout the event, communities host educational booths, share resources about PD, and invite residents and staff to learn more about how they can support those living with the disease. This blend of awareness and activity is what makes the program so impactful.

In 2024, participants nationwide achieved over 18 million steps, and this year, we’re aiming even higher and know we can meet our 25 million step goal. The impact of this program goes far beyond the numbers. Residents gain confidence, friendships blossom, and communities come together in ways that inspire lasting change. We’re proud to offer this event which has become hallmark for many senior living communities and invite you to join us in making 2025 our most impactful year yet!

Join us for Pump It for Parkinson's this April and help us bring awareness nationwide to the benefits of exercise for those living with Parkinson's Disease.

Learn More: Pump It for Parkinson's

We have talked about the versatility of the NuStep recumbent trainer in senior living both for convenience in the fitness center layout and overall function for the population we serve in this environment. We have also provided great insight in programming a workout on the NuStep recumbent trainer and how you can creatively boost strength, endurance and aerobic function for users. That's why NuStep equipment has been a top choice for senior living communities for over 25 years. And that's why NIFS fitness pros look to NuStep.

Hear from the fitness pros at NIFS on why they love NuStep for their residents.

“We love working with the NuStep because it is an excellent option for all abilities and skill levels. The fact that it is a match for everyone, provides a safe and effective method of exercise makes it a go-to for building strength and endurance in the active aging population” – Josh, Phoenix, AZ

“No matter whether you have difficulties with your hips or joints, or have almost any other mobility difficulties, the NuStep can accommodate you. The adjustable resistance level gives all fitness levels a great workout. The hand grips and seat are adjustable to fit an incredible range of individuals in different height and weight ranges. NuStep will help to keep your muscles strong and improve blood circulation throughout your body.” – Kayla, Towson, MD

 “The NuStep is a great piece of exercise equipment when it comes to people with limited range of motion and lack of mobility. The upright posture accompanied with arm and leg movements at the right intensity can prove to be an effective cardiovascular exercise for anyone.” – Davion, Stone Mountain, GA

““I love the NuStep due to how beginner friendly it is for our residents of all ages and backgrounds. The NuStep considers all individuals with varying capabilities when being utilized.” – Michael, Terre Haute, IN

“NuStep is great because it’s easy to use and beginner friendly. Residents love using the NuStep to get their movement in, especially if the treadmill or bike is too difficult.” – Stephanie, Baltimore, MD

“I love the NuStep, because it is very user friendly! The residents are not intimidated by it, like they are with some other equipment. It’s super easy for them to adjust on their own, and they don’t have to press a lot of buttons to get it started.” – Michelle, Baltimore, MD

“Our residents love the NuStep.  It is the most popular piece of equipment in our Fitness Center.  As a fitness professional, I love the features that it offers.  The ability for people to exercise both the upper and lower body.  The ease of getting in and out, the adjustable swivel seat, the familiarity of the equipment as many people transition from rehab to general fitness.  The NuStep gives wonderful back support and is simply a terrific piece of cardiovascular equipment.  You can pump up the resistance and have a challenging workout too!” – Jane, Palm City, FL

“I love the NuStep because it is easily accessible, which is an important factor in a senior living setting. A wide variety of residents can operate the machine safely and get an effective workout as well.” – Adrian, Indianapolis, IN

It’s a no-brainer on why we chose NuStep for Pump it for Parkinson’s as we considered exercise options that would accommodate ranging abilities. This free event will provide education on the benefits of exercise for those living with Parkinson’s during Parkinson’s Awareness Month and communities can engage both their residents and employees together. Whether your participant is a newbie to exercise or very fit, the versality of the NuStep is sure to give them a great workout! We invite your senior living community to join us in this free program to help us achieve our goal of completing a million steps to honor the one million Americans living with Parkinson’s! One location will be the lucky winner of a free NuStep T6 Cross Trainer!

Learn More: Pump It for Parkinson's