Do I have to sign a contract to join Fast Forward?

No. Fast Forward does not require you to sign a contract or pay a start up membership fee. We understand that at times, exacerbations may be caused by the disease and time off to rest and heal the body is required.

Are classes offered at various times during the weekday and the weekend?

Yes, classes are available at the following times:

• Weekday Mornings: 8:00am -12:00pm
• Monday and Thursday Evening: 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30pm
• Saturday Mornings: 9:00am
• Pilates Classes are held - Tuesday/Thursday: 8:00am, Monday: 1:30pm
• Individual Training is also available upon request
• Class size is limited to ensure adequate attention to all participants

Are there trainers who are present the entire time I am working out?

Yes. Fast Forward has trainers that supervise and walk you through the entire session each time you have a class. This way the trainer can see your progress on an individual basis and evaluate if changes need to be made. Like the variability of multiple sclerosis there is not a one-size-fits all program. Individual attention to your specific needs is important to us.

Are the instructors trained or certified in strength training?

Yes.There is always a certified trainer who is also CPR trained in each class who has knowledge of the needs of the MS client.

Does the strength training vary every time I attend a class?

There can be a combination of strength training and aerobic exercise for those clients who are able to tolerate the level of exercise. Exercises involving strength, balance, and coordination stations are included in each workout. There is a rotation of exercises to cover particular areas that the MS patient needs specifically for them. The daily fluctuations in fatigue and energy come into play as far as the intensity of exercise. Other benefits of exercise have been documented in the positive quality of mental and social activities.

What is the cost for classes at Fast Forward?

The program fee is monthly. 2 classes a week for one month cost $30.00 and 3 classes a week for one month cost $39.00. This includes either the strength program, pilates, or a combination. Also, we do not have a use it or lose it policy for monthly classes. Unused classes can be made up anytime during the month.

Should I discuss this with my doctor before I start working out at Fast Forward?

Absolutely. When starting any new physical fitness program let your physician know in case there are any complications that your doctor wants to be informed of. Exercise has such an overall positive effect on our vitality, physical and social functioning that the benefits are far-reaching. Your medication regime is between you and your physician. We feel confident that this program will allow you to have a positive view in your overall health perception regardless of the disease progression.

What is involved in strength training?

The three main methods of strength training involve free weights, portable equipment such as resistance bands and stationary exercise machines. Which one to use is determined by your physical ability, coordination, strength, muscle control and personal preference.

Do I have to have MS to participate?

No, we currently work with adults who have been diagnosed with A.L.S. (Lou Gehrig's Disease), Parkinson's disease and those who have suffered a Cervical Spine Injury. As always, consent with your physician is required and should not be used as a replacement for physical therapy. Our clients have had great success physically, mentally and emotionally as a result of the program.

Have you completed any studies to validate your program?

To date, we have completed two studies and a third is nearing completion. The first study, recorded in 2006, was in partnership with the University of Nebraska Medical Center and studied the "Effectiveness of a strength program on adults diagnosed with multiple sclerosis". Sixty seven adults participated in a six-month program and the results were excellent.

Our second study, held in 2008, was in partnership with Washington University-St. Louis which studied the "Effectiveness of physical exercise on depression and other mental conditions in those diagnosed with MS". Forty adults participated and the results were extremely positive.

Refer to the Research tab for a download of the studies.

Our final study is in progress and studies the "Impact of a Resistance Program on Gait". The study again is in partnership with the University of Nebraska Medical Center, as well as the University of Nebraska-Omaha Biomechanics Program. Sixty adults will complete the study that will conclude in 2009 and the results to date have been impressive. 

Data on any study is available by contacting Fast Forward @ 402-330-6292.