Pump It for Parkinson’s: Uniting for Awareness, Action, and Impact
Every step matters — and this April, thousands across the country stepped up in a big way.
Pump It for Parkinson’s, an annual initiative led by the National Institute for Fitness & Sport (NIFS), continues to grow in momentum and meaning. Now in its third year, the event aims to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease while spotlighting the transformative role exercise can play in managing its symptoms. At NuStep, we’re honored to support this important cause and help communities across the U.S. move forward, one step at a time.
Why It’s Important
Parkinson’s disease affects nearly 10 million people worldwide, making it one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. It impacts movement, balance, speech, and daily functioning — but research consistently shows that exercise can be one of the most powerful tools for slowing progression and improving quality of life.
Events like Pump It for Parkinson’s bring national attention to these benefits, while also giving individuals, senior living communities, and fitness centers a chance to actively support the cause. By participating, they not only advocate for Parkinson’s awareness but also celebrate the strength and resilience of those living with the condition.
2025: A Record-Breaking Year
This year’s goal was ambitious: 25 million steps — up from 10 million in 2023 and 18 million achieved in 2024. And together, we rose to the challenge.
At NuStep headquarters alone, we contributed 173,046 steps, surpassing our internal goal by nearly 50,000. Team members from all departments pitched in, with many individuals walking multiple shifts or logging over 4,000 steps on their own. We also saw tremendous engagement from partner communities, positive media coverage, and an inspiring wave of social media activity showing NuStep users in action.
The energy, camaraderie, and purpose behind each step were palpable.
NuStep’s Role and Commitment
As a longtime partner of NIFS and a pioneer in inclusive fitness equipment, NuStep is proud to power this initiative — both literally and figuratively. Our recumbent cross trainers are designed to be accessible, comfortable, and safe for users with mobility challenges, making them an ideal choice for individuals with Parkinson’s.
We’ve seen firsthand the confidence and capability that NuStep equipment can restore in users — especially when movement might otherwise feel difficult or discouraging. That’s why we continue to support Pump It for Parkinson’s through:
- Event coordination and outreach with NIFS
- Encouraging our own team to step up and spread the message
- Sharing stories that inspire and connect
Looking Ahead
While this year’s event was a huge success, we’re just getting started.
NuStep is committed to growing this initiative alongside NIFS and expanding its reach in the years to come. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to move — and to be supported in that movement.
If your organization wants to be part of the next Pump It for Parkinson’s event, we encourage you to learn more and get involved. Whether you walk one step or one thousand, you’re making a difference.
Thank You
To every community that participated, every partner that promoted the event, and every individual who took the time to log their steps — thank you. You’re part of something bigger. Together, we’re not just raising awareness. We’re building strength, solidarity, and hope — one step at a time.
