From January 25 to 29, 2026, the city of Olomouc became the stage for a unique blend of dance, science, and care. The NeuroDance “Train the Trainer 2.0” workshop welcomed 47 participants from across Europe, ready to deepen their skills in teaching dance to people living with Parkinson’s disease. The event drew attention not only from the participants but also from Czech TV, radio, and newspapers, highlighting its growing public impact.
Listening, Learning, and Adapting
Building on feedback from the inaugural 2025 workshop in Ljubljana, the Olomouc edition introduced important new elements. Most notably, following every session with Parkinson’s patients, participants took part in structured reflection discussions. These post-session reflections gave future trainers the chance to analyze what happened during the class, raise awareness of the diverse symptoms faced by people with Parkinson’s, and consider how best to support participants in real time.
“Listening to the participants’ experiences helped us refine the workshop,” explained one organizer. “We wanted our trainers to understand the human side of Parkinson’s as deeply as the scientific side.”
From Theory to Practice—And Back Again
The five-day program combined lectures, hands-on exercises, and real-life dance sessions with people living with Parkinson’s disease. Topics ranged from understanding the neurological aspects of Parkinson’s to designing safe and engaging dance sessions to music choices and step variations.
Participants spent ample time practicing teaching techniques, both with and without Parkinson’s patients, allowing them to adapt movements for safety and confidence. Special attention was paid to social engagement, ethical considerations, and fostering enjoyment during sessions—a holistic approach that merges science, pedagogy, and empathy.
Cross-Border Collaboration
As in the first edition, Train the Trainer 2.0 strengthened connections between partner institutions across Europe. Daily meetings ensured that all participants and facilitators were aligned on teaching protocols, evidence-based practices, and the overall vision of NeuroDance.
Recognition and Celebration
The workshop concluded with a Q&A session and a certification exam. Passing the exam demonstrated that participants were ready to bring NeuroDance classes to their communities, combining scientific understanding with practical teaching skills. The week ended with a diploma-awarding ceremony, celebrating the hard work, dedication, and collaborative spirit that defined the event. We can say with honor that 17 new trainers were certified as Dance Instructors for people with Parkinson’s Disease.
Train the Trainer 2.0 was more than a workshop—it was a demonstration of how feedback, reflection, and hands-on experience can transform education. With new trained instructors leaving Olomouc equipped to lead dance sessions for people with Parkinson’s disease, the NeuroDance project continues to expand its reach, one confident step at a time.
