AFT Webinar – September 2026 (Dystonia in Parkinson’s: Recognise It, Advise with Confidence, Exercise with Purpose)

When a client with Parkinson’s develops a foot that curls or movements they can’t control, would you recognise it? Would you know how to advise them, and how to keep them exercising safely and with purpose?

Join us for a live webinar that gives exercise professionals the confidence to recognise dystonia and dyskinesia in clients with Parkinson’s and to respond with purpose. Led by Rachel Rutley, physiotherapist and clinical academic with almost 35 years of neurological experience, this session breaks down what dystonia is, how it presents (from the classic foot dystonia often seen in young onset Parkinson’s through to the movements that get in the way of training), and practical ways to manage it. Rachel will look at why an overactive or clawing foot can undermine balance work, why driving high-intensity effort can make things worse, and how sensory and proprioceptive approaches can help, including a live demonstration of exercises you can use with clients.

Whether you’re new to working with neurological conditions or building on existing experience, this session gives you a practical foundation for recognising these presentations, adapting safely, and knowing the point at which to refer on. No prior neurological training required.

This webinar is suitable for:

• Personal Trainers
• Exercise Referral Instructors
• Physiotherapists
• Occupational Therapists
• Strength and Conditioning Coaches
• Sports Therapists

About our Guests

Rachel Rutley is a physiotherapist with almost 35 years of neurological clinical experience, specialising in the management of Parkinson’s for the past 14 years. She leads exercise classes for her local Parkinson’s group and works with individual clients to help them manage their symptoms and optimise their function. She is PD Warrior and PWR!Moves trained, and is a clinical academic at Keele University in Staffordshire, where she teaches on physiotherapy and exercise programmes. Rachel has completed research into several topics in Parkinson’s, including the effects of stretching programmes and the impact of foot dystonia on gait and its treatment. She brings both clinical depth and practical, hands-on approaches that fitness professionals can apply straight away.

What makes AFT Live Panel Webinars Unique?

Earn While You Learn

Attendees can claim 0.5 CIMSPA CPD points for participating in our live webinars, supporting your ongoing professional development and commitment to inclusive fitness practice.

Why Attend Our Live Webinars?

Real-Time Expertise: Connect directly with specialists in adaptive fitness, neurological conditions, and rehabilitation through our live format
Interactive Learning: Ask questions, get immediate answers, and engage with industry experts as the session unfolds
Flexible Viewing: Watch from your computer, tablet, mobile, or smart TV—wherever works best for you
Professional Networking: Connect with fellow fitness professionals who share your passion for inclusive health through our live chat
Practical Insights: Walk away with evidence-based strategies you can implement immediately in your practice

Who Should Join?

Qualified fitness professionals looking to expand their knowledge in adaptive fitness training. Whether you specialize in neurological conditions, work with clients with limb loss or spinal injuries, or simply want to build your confidence in inclusive health and rehabilitation, our webinars provide valuable CPD opportunities that enhance your professional practice.

Can't Join Live?

Don't worry! Register and you can watch the webinar back at a time that suits you. 

Please note CIMSPA CPD points are only available to claim to those watching live or watch the event back within 48 hours of the live broadcast.