Rock Steady Boxing is a health and wellness program designed to support people with Parkinson’s Disease. At its core, it’s a form of non-contact boxing, and it’s proven to be very effective in improving all of the symptoms that people with Parkinson’s Disease typically experience.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. It is characterized by a gradual loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain which play a crucial role in coordinating movement.
The most common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include tremors (trembling or shaking), bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity (stiffness of the limbs and trunk), and postural instability (impaired balance and coordination).
As the disease progresses slowly, other symptoms may include difficulty walking, speech changes, and reduced facial expression.
Parkinson’s disease is also associated with non-motor symptoms such as cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not fully understood, and there is currently no cure. However, treatment options such as medication, physical therapy, and deep brain stimulation can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals living with the condition.
Ongoing research is focused on better understanding the underlying mechanisms of Parkinson’s disease and developing new therapies to slow its progression and alleviate symptoms.
What Are the Physical Benefits of Rock Steady Boxing?
Rock Steady Boxing was developed to help people living with Parkinson’s Disease fight back against the progression and symptoms of the disease.
Participants report that the training program has been beneficial across all stages of Parkinson’s Disease.
Rock Steady Boxing can help Parkinson’s patients move more easily and safely while improving their posture, gait, flexibility, and resistance to injury.
Participants have reported that Rock Steady Boxing has:
- Decreased the severity of PD symptoms.
- Reduced their fear of falling down.
- Helped them perform daily activities more efficiently with higher quality.
- Helped them understand their physicality better and improve self-management.
- Helped them perform activities of daily living like climbing stairs, entering a vehicle, and walking across a room.
Rock Steady Boxing program creators report that regular training may provide neuroprotection and subsequently slow, stop, or reverse the progression of Parkinson’s or promote neurorestoration. They are continuing to partner with researchers to learn more.
What Are the Social and Emotional Benefits of Rock Steady Boxing?
One of the biggest benefits that Rock Steady Boxing participants report is the renewed sense of confidence they experience.
Most participants attend training sessions one or two times a week in a group setting. This creates a real sense of camaraderie among the participants.
It’s a supportive community of peers who understand exactly what it’s like to live with Parkinson’s disease. Members develop friendships, cheer each other on, and celebrate victories big and small.
Who Can Participate in Rock Steady Boxing?
Nearly everyone with Parkinson’s disease can participate and receive the benefits of this incredible program. Classes are open to residents, their families and anyone in the community who has Parkinson’s disease.
Individuals of all ages benefit from the program. We strongly encourage you to also discuss Rock Steady Boxing participation with your physician prior to your first workout.
Senior Star’s Seven Areas of Wellness
At Senior Star, we are committed to supporting our residents’ holistic wellness via mind, body and spirit. So we root our Signature Programming, as well as our building layouts and overall day-to-day activities in Senior Star’s Seven Areas of Wellness. Rock Steady boxing is just one of the incredible Signature Programs offered within the majority of our communities.
Senior Star’s Seven Areas of Wellness:
- SPIRITUALITY
- EXPRESSION
- NOURISHMENT & HEALTH
- EXERCISE & MOVEMENT
- SOCIALIZATION
- INNER STRENGTH
- BRAIN POWER
Contact us to learn more about the programs available to you or your loved one at your local Senior Star community.