A group class directed by UCSF physical therapist faculty to improve posture, strength and physical performance, with potentially long-term reduction in risk of fractures in addition to providing social benefits and peer support.

Everyone knows the effect of gravity and time on your body and posture, rounded shoulders, slouched back, and weaker bones. But you can fight these changes and we can help. Stand Tall is a physical therapist created program designed to specifically address these issues.  

The specialized exercise and postural training that make up this class will strengthen core and back muscles, improve posture and bone health with targeted strength training and weight bearing exercise. This social, specialized exercise class will improve your current and future functioning while offering a great peer support network.

Stand Tall was created by Wendy Katzman, PT, DPTSc, OCS. A board certified orthopedic clinical specialist since 1995, she is the principal investigator in 2 clinical trials to determine the effects of these exercises on posture, physical function, and quality of life.

Days & Times

Tuesday: 8:30am - 9:30am | Thursday: 8:30am - 9:30am

Location

Virtual (via Zoom)

Requirements

Participation is subject to screening by the supervising physical therapist.

Instructors

Kathy Bonacini, PT, DPT, GCS, OCS is a licensed physical therapist. In addition to instructing Stand Tall, Dr. Bonacini works with a variety of orthopedic patients at the Lakeshore location of the UCSF Faculty Practice, and has a particular interest in the geriatric population.

Sara Suddes, PT, DPT is a licensed physical therapist. In addition to instructing Stand Tall, Dr. Suddes works with a variety of orthopedic patients at the Mission Bay location of the UCSF Faculty Practice through telehealth.

Fee Structure

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Stand Tall Video

The video adaptation of the Stand Tall exercise program can be purchased for download. For more information please contact us.

Balance Fit is a group exercise program designed by physical therapists to address balance, coordination, strength, and mental flexibility. Connect with others in our community and improve your quality of life.  

Sponsored by the UCSF Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science
In Partnership with UCSF Campus Life Services Fitness & Recreation

Are you not as steady on your feet as you used to be? Do you avoid activities you used to enjoy because you are afraid you will lose your balance?  

BalanceFit Group is a class that includes balance, strength, coordination, and mental flexibility exercises specifically designed to improve balance confidence.

BalanceFit participants include individuals with a history of:

Note: Participants must have the ability to walk unassisted and must be able to tolerate physical activity.

Days & Times

ZOOM – Wednesday: 12:00pm-1:00pm PST |  IN PERSON – Friday: 12:00pm-1:00pm

Location

Wednesday: Virtual (via Zoom) | Friday: Health & Wellness Center, Bakar Fitness & Recreation Center, 1675 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158

Requirement

Participation is subject to screening by the supervising physical therapist.

Instructor

Erica Pitsch, PT, MPT, DPT, NCS is a licensed physical therapist specializing in neurologic physical therapy.

Fee Structure

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Work one on one with a physical therapist to acheive your goals for fitness, function or performance. Start with an individual evaluation to identify any strength, endurance, flexibility, balance, coordination or functional limitations, and address them with a comprehensive plan. Contact us.