Programs, Workshops & Classes for Women with Disabilities
NYU Langone’s Initiative for Women with Disabilities at the Elly and Steve Hammerman Health and Wellness Center offers programs, workshops, and classes specifically designed for women with physical disabilities.
We offer educational workshops that bring information directly from the experts to our participants. Our medical professionals also hold a lecture series on various topics to help promote healthy lifestyle decisions. The goal of the workshops is to help build participants’ knowledge and confidence in managing their health, and to keep them informed of resources available in the community.
Exercise classes are available on weekdays and are designed to help women stay active and improve strength, stamina, and flexibility. The majority of our classes can be done in a seated or standing position.
Fitness Classes
All fitness classes are offered virtually. To register or learn more, please call 212-598-6429.
Adaptive Workout
This class is a total body, cardio, and strength-conditioning workout. With a new workout every week, the classes are designed to push participants harder than they’d push themselves.
Dates: Monday, July 6, 13, 20, 27
Time: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Dates: Wednesday, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Time: 11a.m. to 12 p.m.
Dates: Thursday, July 2, 9,16, 23, 30
Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
Instructor: Steph Roach
Move and Groove
Move and Groove is a dynamic fun-filled total body workout. We use light weights, dynabands, and other props to strengthen, tone, stretch, and revitalize the entire being. You can do the class sitting or standing.
Dates: Tuesday, July 7, 14, 21, 28
Time: 1 to 2 p.m.
Instructor: Jyothi Larson
Strike and Strength
Empower your strength and coordination in this adaptive boxing class. Engage in a full-body workout that enhances fitness and boosts confidence, all while staying seated.
Dates: Wednesday, July 1, 8, 15, 22
Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
Instructor: Laurie Malen
Empowerment Program
This program provides an opportunity for young adults to engage with peers, build community, and practice socialization skills. The group is facilitated by our staff and is a safe space for creating friendships and community.
Dates: Thursday, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Time: 11 to 11:45 a.m.
Led by: Jane Pfitsch, LMSW
In-Person Workshops and Events
Discover a variety of in-person workshops and events where you can connect with others, gain valuable knowledge, and grow through shared experiences. All in-person activities are held at Loeb Auditorium at NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital unless otherwise specified.
Diamond Art
Shine a little brighter at our Diamond Art workshop, where every tiny gem turns into something beautiful. Relax, create, and take home a piece of art that sparkles just like you.
Date: Thursday, July 9, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Time: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Pictionary, Trivia, and UNO Flip
Stack the fun, skip the boredom. Join us and play your way to a winning streak. Meet new friends, enjoy some lighthearted competition, and make every game a good one.
Date: Monday, July 13, 2026
Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
BINGO
Get ready for Bingo, where every number called brings a little more excitement and a lot more smiles. Join the fun, try your luck, and see if today’s your winning day.
Dates: Monday, July 20
Time: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Color and Connect
Unwind, create, and share your favorite color mandalas or designs. This is an opportunity to chat with others about your favorite NYC spots and activities while you relax, unwind, and enjoy time together.
Date: Monday, July 20
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Presenter: Litsa DeJulio, LCSW
Painting Workshop
Come and have some fun while bringing out your inner artist at our painting workshop.
Date: Friday, July 24
Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Gen Y and Z Peer Support Program
This program provides an opportunity for young adults with physical disabilities to engage with one another, build community, practice socialization, and hang out.
Date: Friday, July 24
Time: 3 to 4:30 p.m.
What Brings You Joy
It’s summer, and we all have different ways to beat the heat, take a break, and connect to what brings us joy. Come and share your favorite music, TV shows, movies, food, or activities to help inspire our community to carve time out for a bit of fun and enjoyment.
Date: Thursday, July 30
Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
Presented by: Jane Pfitsch, LMSW
UNO
Join us for UNO, where quick thinking meets big laughs, and everyone’s in one the fun. Bring your game face or just your curiosity. Either way, you’ll leave smiling.
Date: Thursday, July 30
Time: 4 to 5 p.m.
Virtual Workshops and Events
Join our virtual workshops and events from the comfort of your home to connect, learn, and engage with our supportive community.
Scattergories
Think fast, write faster! Scattergories is the ultimate game-night icebreaker where quick reflexes beat deep knowledge.
Date: Tuesday, July 21
Time: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Crossword
Who is up for a quick crossword puzzle? It is low-stress, super satisfying, and a great way to wake up our brains.
Date: Tuesday, July 14
Time: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Creativity Corner
Engaging creativity boosts self-esteem, supports social connection, and helps the brain recover from trauma. Join us for an hour of exercises designed to increase mental flexibility and build creative muscle.
Dates: Thursday, July 2, 9, 16, 30
Time: 1 to 2 p.m.
Presenter: Jane Pfitsch, LMSW
Afternoon Teatime: Sip and Chat
This supportive virtual group serves as a calm, social space to unwind, engage in gentle conversation and connection, share small wins or the day’s events, and relax.
Date: Monday, July 6
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Presenter: Litsa DeJulio, LCSW
Mindfulness Mornings
Writer, scientist, and meditation expert Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD, defines mindfulness as paying attention in a particular way—on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally. This mode of attention calms the nervous system and helps us heal from trauma, but it takes practice. Join us virtually for a guided practice followed by a brief reflection.
Dates: Friday, July 10, 17, 31
Time: 11 to 11:30 a.m.
Presenter: Jane Pfitsch, LMSW
Virtual Relationship Series: Fathers
In May, we had a discussion series to explore our relationship with the mothers in our lives, so now let’s make room for dads! Join us for a discussion series to explore our relationship with father figures and how these dynamics have impacted the ways we relate to ourselves and those around us.
Dates: Friday, July 10, 17, and 31
Time: 1 to 2 p.m.
The Art of Doing Less
Living with limited energy can make it feel like there’s never enough time or strength to do everything. Join us to explore practical strategies for protecting your energy, letting go of unrealistic expectations, and focusing on what matters most.
Date: Monday, July 13
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Tiny Joys, Big Impact
When life feels stressful or overwhelming, small moments of joy can make a difference. Join us for a conversation about simple pleasures, meaningful activities, and ways to create more moments that support your well-being regardless of your budget, energy level, or circumstances.
Date: Monday, July 27
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Presenter: Litsa DeJulio, LCS