This July, the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation (MDF) hosted Myotonic Dystrophy In Motion Awareness Month 2026!
Special thanks to the MDF Movement Committee for helping design this inspiring program.
What is Myotonic Dystrophy In Motion? What started as an idea for MDF activewear has evolved into an initiative to unify, inspire, and encourage the international DM community to start moving! Click here to learn more about Myotonic Dystrophy In Motion! >>>
Check Out Our Weekly Movement Mondays
Each Monday in July 2026 will feature a movement expert exploring one of the Pillars of Movement from MDF’s Exercise Guide for People Living with DM. These sessions are designed to be accessible and adaptable—whether you’re just getting started or looking to enhance your regular routine. Register once to attend and get early access to recordings! >>>
Thank you to our sponsor, Avidity Biosciences, for making this event possible!
Join these 30-minute sessions on Mondays at 4:00-4:30pm Pacific:
- July 6: Balance
Led by Michael Cornea, DPT, Living with DM1
- July 13: Aerobic and Cardio
Led by Laura Girard-Côté, pht, M.Sc, Doctoral Candidate, Universite of Quebec at Chicoutimi
- July 20: Flexibility
Led by Kristina Kelly, DPT, MS, EdM, NCS, CPT, PES
- July 27: Resistance and Strengthening
Led by Donovan Lott, PT, PhD, Research Professor at the University of Florida, Gainesville
Moving and Meeting Happy Hours
After each Movement Monday session at 4:30-5:00pm Pacific, participants can stick around for a virtual community gathering. These casual “happy hour” style conversations are led by MDF staff and support group facilitators. Attendees had a chance to reflect on what they had learned, shared their experiences, and connected with others who are incorporating movement into their daily routines.
Register by June 1st for your chance to win an Myotonic Dystrophy In Motion water bottle! These bottles can help keep you hydrated during awareness month and all year long. Register once to attend and get early access to recordings! >>>
Bonus Session: Ask the Expert on DM & Exercise
There will be an Ask the Expert on DM and Exercise in July. Registration will be separate from the In Motion series. Registration will be available for this event in May!
Purchase the 2026 Limited Edition In Motion Shirt!
Only available from now until the end of July - don't miss out on this limited edition design! Show support for In Motion month, raise awareness, and get moving in style! Click here to order the 2026 Limited Edition In Motion Shirt! >>>
Make Your Movement Matter: Fundraise for a MDF
This July, turn your movement into momentum for change by fundraising during Myotonic Dystrophy In Motion Awareness Month. Whether you're working toward physical therapy goals, participating in an endurance event, or hosting a community class, your movement can help drive MDF’s mission of community, care, and a cure.
MDF’s DIY Fundraising Toolkit makes it easy to get started. Create a custom donation page using our Classy platform, share your story, and invite friends and family to support your journey. From personal challenges to team events, every step, stretch, or roll can raise awareness and support for the DM community.
Need ideas or support? The MDF team is here to help you brainstorm, plan, and promote your fundraiser every step of the way. Email MDF at development@myotonic.org or call 415-800-7777.
Downloadable Resources
Exercising with Myotonic Dystrophy Infographic: Designed for People Living with DM. Exercise may help optimize function and maintain strength in people living with myotonic dystrophy. This one page summary sheet outlines ideas for finding motivation, monitoring your exercise, and adding movement to your daily life.
Exercise Guide for Individuals with Myotonic Dystrophy: Designed for People Living with DM. This guide is written by two physical therapists who specialize in working with individuals with DM, and includes information on the benefits of exercise for DM, recommendations on aerobic activity, types of exercise, monitoring exercise, exercise strategies and finding motivation.
Nutrition Guide for Individuals with Myotonic Dystrophy: Designed for People Living with DM. This guide is written and reviewed by nutritionists who specialize in working with individuals with DM, and includes information on diet and DM, managing constipation, being overweight/underweight with DM, managing swallowing problems, feeding tubes, supplements, and sample meals.
Role of Physical Therapy in the Assessment and Management of Individuals with Myotonic Dystrophy: Designed for Physical Therapists. Most individuals living with myotonic dystrophy (DM) will probably first encounter a physical therapist in the multidisciplinary clinic where they receive care. These physical therapy guidelines for DM address the role that the physical therapist plays in DM care, including evaluation, education, instructions and physical movement recommendations.