Rock Steady Boxing SRQ - Parkinson's Boxing Classes

Author

BMoFit- Rock Steady Boxing SRQ

Posted on

Jul 26, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties

share-this
Share This

We are learning every day that there are ways in which people with Parkinson’s disease can enhance their quality of life and even build strength, flexibility and speed! By exercising with coaches who know the ropes, you can fight your way out of the corner and start to feel and function better.

These classes have proven that anyone, at any level of Parkinson’s, can actually lessen their symptoms and lead a healthier and happier life


Why Boxing for Parkinson’s?

Various studies in the 1980s and 1990s supported the notion that rigorous exercise, emphasizing gross motor movement, balance, core strength, and rhythm, could favorably impact range of motion, flexibility, posture, gait, and activities of daily living. More recent studies, most notably at Cleveland Clinic, focus on the concept of intense “forced” exercise, and have begun to suggest that certain kinds of exercise may be neuro-protective, i.e., actually slowing disease progression. Discovery of a cure may be many years away but there is evidence that progress is made in all stages of the disease by those participating in the Rock Steady Boxing program.

The Parkinson’s Challenge

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative movement disorder which can cause deterioration of motor skills, balance, speech and sensory function. Rock Steady Boxing is the first program in the country dedicated to the fight against Parkinson’s. In our program, exercises are largely adapted from boxing drills. Boxers condition for optimal agility, speed, muscular endurance, accuracy, hand-eye coordination, footwork and overall strength to defend against and overcome opponents. At Rock Steady Boxing, Parkinson’s disease is the opponent. Exercises vary in purpose and form but share one common trait: they are rigorous and intended to extend the perceived capabilities of the participant.

Types of Rock Steady Boxing Classes

Training classes include an exercise program that attacks Parkinson’s at its vulnerable neurological points. While focusing on overall fitness, workouts include: focus mitts, heavy bags, speed bags, double-ended bags, water bags, core work, cognitive activities, voice activation and circuit weight training. No boxing experience is necessary and people of all ages are invited to participate. There are four levels of classes offered, depending on the participant’s level or Parkinson’s and overall fitness. All classes at Rock Steady Boxing SRQ are mixed-level at this time.

Medical Evidence Supporting Rock Steady Boxing

The value of exercise has been corroborated in several studies, including some at Lakehead University in Ontario and University of Utah in Salt Lake City. According to a Cleveland Clinic study, aerobic fitness can be improved in Parkinson’s patients following “forced” and/or voluntary exercise. Studies are showing that exercise induces brain repair and accompanying behavioral recovery. Some suggest that continuous, intensive training may confer neuro-protection, and subsequently, slow, stop or reverse the progression of Parkinson’s or promote neuro-restoration. (References to any studies are for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement of Rock Steady Boxing by the researchers.)

Because of the promising results seen through Rock Steady Boxing, the organization was selected to be a part of research to document the impact of boxing and rigorous exercise on the progression of Parkinson’s. Rock Steady Boxing has also drawn the attention of university researchers who are in the process of quantifying and evaluating the results in people who have continued with Rock Steady Boxing.

Can Anyone with Parkinson’s Participate?

Nearly everyone with Parkinson’s disease can participate and receive benefit from Rock Steady Boxing. An intake evaluation process is conducted prior to the first class to determine the boxer’s ability and evaluate balance risks. Some participants will require a caregiver partner to assist in class. Individuals of all ages are benefiting from the Rock Steady Boxing program.

We strongly encourage you to discuss Rock Steady Boxing participation with your physician prior to your first workout.

Rock Steady SRQ Class Format

Our typical class has the following format:

  • Warm-up including voice activation. We warm up our bodies and voices together.
  • Glove up while coach Leslie goes through the boxing combos for the day.
  • Go to bags and start punching. We normally stay at each bag for four rounds, consisting of two punching and two body-weight exercise rounds.
  • Take off gloves, get some water and rest a few minutes.
  • Strength workout consisting of gross motor movements, balance, cardio and core work — with a fun station or two mixed in!
  • We end class down on the floor with stretching and a short meditation for the last 15 minutes of class.
  • Circle up together for our cheesy cheer and head out the door.

Rock Steady Boxing History

Rock Steady Boxing, the first boxing program of its kind in the country, was founded in 2006 by former Marion County (Indiana) Prosecutor, Scott C. Newman, who is living with Parkinson’s. Rock Steady Boxing initially began through the friendship of two men, Scott Newman and Vince Perez, after Scott had been diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s at the age of 40. Refusing to let his friend go down without a fight, Vince turned to his experience as a Golden Gloves boxer to design a program that attacks Parkinson’s at its vulnerable neurological points. His intuitive insight is now proven to have merit through an increasing body of medical research. Realizing that their experience might be replicated for others, Scott and Vince founded Rock Steady Boxing as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization. As word of this unique program spread and the demand for the classes increased, Rock Steady Boxing created classes to meet the fitness levels at all stages of Parkinson’s – from the newly diagnosed to those who had been living with it for decades plus.

Soctt Newman Rock Steady Boxing Founder
  • To view the original version of this article visit bmofit.com/rock-steady-boxing/
  • Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.

Other Articles You May Like

With Gratitude Help Us Spread the Word for Our Ribbon Cutting Celebration

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Your support as a valued sponsor means more to me and our team at My Care Finders than words can truly express. This open house and ribbon-cutting celebration is such a special milestone not just for our business, but for the community were so honored to serve. And it wouldnt be possible without you. Your belief in what we do helping families navigate senior care with compassion, clarity, and purpose is what fuels us every day. Knowing that we have partners like you standing beside us makes all the difference. Were expecting a wonderful turnout, and we truly believe this will be a joyful, memorable event for everyone involved. Light bites, music, laughter, and connection a true celebration of community. Attached is our event flyer created by Jesse, the owner of My Sanctuary of Wellness. A HUGE shoutout to Jesse for your patience and constantly updating the flyer when needed Thank you Jesse!!!!! Please be sure to bring your own table and chairs. Wed love it if you could help us spread the word by sharing it on Facebook and other social media outlets, along with your friends, family, colleagues, and even your patients. The more, the merrier! Lets make this an unforgettable evening. Additionally, our assistance, Becca will be sending each of you our w-9, along with an invoice for the event. Thank you again for being such an important part of this journey. I cant wait to celebrate with you!With sincere gratitude,Heather Tetrault

BrightStar Care of Venice & Port Charlotte- has won Best of Home Care Leader of Excellence , Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice for 2025 by Home Care Pulse

BrightStar Care of Venice & Port Charlotte- has won Best of Home Care Leader of Excellence , Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice for 2025 by Home Care Pulse. These are difficult awards. We are very proud of them.We can help your patients whenever they need home care to stay safe at home. No minimums- 1hr up to 24/7 careJoint Commission Gold Seal of Approval Our BrightStar Care location has earned accreditation from the Joint Commission, which validates that we follow their requirements for the highest level of safety and care.Best of Home Care Leader in Experience 2025 Recognizes our location as earning satisfaction levels in the top 5% based on caregiver training, compassion and communication.Best of Home Care Provider of Choice 2025 Indicates high satisfaction levels of our clients regarding our trustworthiness and ability to provide outstanding in-home care.Best of Home Care Employer of Choice 2025 Happy employees deliver better care. This award distinguishes us as best-in-Class for caregiver satisfaction. The Joint Commission Enterprise Champion for Quality Because of the commitment to quality standards from our local offices, were the only national home care brand that consistently earns the Enterprise Champion for Quality award from the Joint Commission. This independent, nonprofit organization accredits the nations best hospitals and major health care systems.

Biological Aging Speeds Up in Your 40s and 60s

Your chronological age and your biological age dont necessarily match. Around the ages of 44 and 60 the aging process accelerates in what has been dubbed a biomolecular shift, which dramatically impacts health and internal aging. Researchers discovered these two bursts of aging during the human lifespan, singling out the mid-forties and early sixties as key periods. But the greater shift in biological aging happens during your early sixties.However, out of this seemingly bad news is some hope. Now that science has pinpointed when these changes occur, it could help researchers uncover what is driving chronic disease as we age, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis or even strategies for prevention. So exactly what is going on during these periods of rapid biological aging, how do they impact health, and what can you do to be proactive? Lets break it down.Aging Isnt Primarily GradualYou can no longer assume that aging happens gradually. Ever notice that some people seem to age overnight or are really showing their age? While there is obviously gradual decline, more dramatic changes happen quickly and during certain periods of life. It all comes down to the molecules that make up your physical body. These individual molecules are what age, and studies reveal that they undergo greater change at certain ages, making aging non-linear or not so much gradual over time.How Periods of Rapid Biological Aging Impact HealthIn both your mid-forties and early sixties most people experience molecular level changes related to skin and muscle aging, cardiovascular disease, and the metabolizing of caffeine. This is why people tend to start or increase cholesterol or blood pressure medications during these times of life.Researchers also noted differences between the two periods of biological aging. People in their forties had a greater shift in relation to fat and alcohol metabolism, while those in their sixties underwent shifts related to immune regulation, carbohydrate metabolism, and kidney function.These facts seem to correlate with experience as many people in their sixties are less able to fight off sickness and are even more prone to weight gain and kidney trouble or even kidney failure. Cancer rates tend to spike around this time as the immune system is less able to fend off the invasive cancer cells. Cases of heart disease also rise during this time as people struggle more with their weight and rising cholesterol levels.Less expected, however, was the evidence of rapid aging during the mid-forties. But it becomes more understandable as you consider what characterizes the lives of most people during this life stage. Lifestyle makes a difference and life moves at a rapid pace during your forties. Often this is a time of busy family and work schedules, high work stress, divorce, and weight gain. You often have less time for self-care during these frantic years, and all combined, this shifts your body into a period of rapid molecular aging.Combat Biological Aging with Proactive StepsYou obviously cant stop the aging process but its possible to slow it down. The steps to achieve this arent all new or innovative. In fact, it involves putting common knowledge into practice which many people resist, at least until later life. Here are some unsurprising practical tips for slowing biological aging: Avoid weight gainEat more fruits and vegetablesControl diabetes and high blood pressureStay physically activeDont smoke And the way to prevent or avoid diabetes and high blood pressure is to limit sugar, processed carbohydrates, and saturated fats. If youre in your 40s, in addition to the above, its also beneficial to monitor and minimize your cholesterol levels, exercise to build muscle mass, and limit or avoid alcohol. For additional ways to combat aging, read our article, How to Live Longer: 12 Life-Boosting Habits to Start NowThe best rule of thumb is not to wait until your health begins to decline before making these changes. Adjust your lifestyle while youre still healthy, and you will see the biggest payoff. However, its never too late to start living with your health in mind, because changes at any stage will make a positive difference.Key Takeaways About Biological Aging in Your 40s and 60sScience previously thought that the human body aged gradually in linear fashion, but recent studies show that aging on a molecular level occurs rapidly during the mid-forties and early sixties. During your forties, this change is often due to lifestyle changes that can be altered for better outcomes. You can slow the aging process during midlife with regular exercise and a diet rich in produce and low in saturated fat and processed carbohydrates. 

Local Services By This Author

BMoFit- Rock Steady Boxing SRQ

Fitness & Wellness 347 Interstate Boulevard, Sarasota, Florida, 34240

Welcome to BMOFIT, where we empower you to take charge of your unique fitness journey. Our boutique, instructor-led gym in Sarasota offers a person-centered approach to exercise, focusing on regaining and maintaining vitality.Group Fitness ClassesJoin our group fitness classes designed for functional movement, aimed at training multiple joints and muscles to enhance daily physical activity. Our classes utilize a variety of exercise tools and techniques, including free weights, kettlebells, fitness balls, steps, bands, and boxing bags, ensuring a comprehensive workout for the upper body, lower body, and core stability. With sequential modifications for all fitness levels, you can adjust the intensity of your workout as needed.Zoom Group Fitness ClassesExperience the convenience and safety of working out from home with our Zoom fitness classes. With minimal equipment required, our live or recorded sessions provide a full-body workout in a limited space, delivered straight to your inbox for flexibility in scheduling.Rock Steady Boxing SRQOur Rock Steady Boxing SRQ program is specially designed for individuals with Parkinsons Disease or Parkinsonism. With a focus on overall fitness, our classes incorporate boxing techniques, core work, BIG movements, cognitive activities, and circuit weight training, empowering participants to "fight back" against Parkinson's.Zoom Rock Steady Boxing SRQParticipate in our Rock Steady Boxing classes from the comfort of your home. Using minimal equipment, our live or recorded sessions include shadow boxing combinations and Parkinsons-related exercises, followed by strength, balance, and core work, concluding with chair-based stretching.Yoga Group ClassesRefresh and renew your spirit with our Hatha-style yoga classes, suitable for all levels of experience. With a focus on gentle flow and relaxation, our classes provide a calming practice to enhance overall well-being.Private SessionsExperience personalized attention with our private one-on-one or small group sessions for fitness training, Rock Steady Boxing, and yoga. Tailored to your individual needs, these sessions provide focused guidance and support to help you reach your fitness goals. Join us at BMOFIT and embark on a journey to fitness and vitality!