Rock Steady Boxing strengthens physical, mental health
April marks Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, a time to call attention to the progressive brain disorder often associated with tremors and body rigidity.
About 1.1 million people in the United States are living with Parkinson’s disease, and nearly 90,000 people are diagnosed with the condition each year, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Through Community Hospital Fitness Pointe, Powers Health offers patients a chance to fight back against Parkinson’s. The medical fitness center offers Rock Steady Boxing, a non-contact fitness program designed for patients who have Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s disease affects people differently, but common symptoms include tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, stooped posture, small handwriting, anxiety, cognitive changes, loss of smell and swallowing difficulties.
“Studies show that the Rock Steady Boxing program is beneficial for those with Parkinson’s disease on both a physical and mental level,” said David Boss, a physical therapist and supervisor of Physical Therapy with Powers Health. “Rock Steady Boxing uses an evidence-based exercise curriculum designed to target symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Participants have reported improved balance and a reduction in the severity of their tremors, among other benefits.”
In the program, coaches guide patients through a circuit of boxing drills, functional exercises and balance and strength training. Fitness Pointe offers four class levels, ranging from patients who experience mild symptoms to those with more severe cognitive difficulties.
The Rock Steady Boxing coaches at Fitness Pointe hold national industry certifications in fitness as well as the Rock Steady Boxing certification. This certification is recognized by the Parkinson’s Foundation as an Accredited Exercise Education Program.
The program is designed to maximize the mental, emotional and physical potential of people with Parkinson’s disease by empowering them through exercise in a supportive environment.
Rock Steady Boxing helps participants improve mobility and walking skills; improve balance and decrease fall risk; increase functional strength and flexibility; improve posture; and provide social support.
Those interested in joining the Rock Steady Boxing program are encouraged to observe a class and schedule an evaluation to determine if the program would be a good fit. Participants must have an evaluation and healthcare provider release before starting the program.
To learn more, call Fitness Pointe at 219-924-5348 or visit fitnesspointe.org/services/rock-steady-boxing.
