Fighting back against Parkinson’s with Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing is a one-of-a-kind, workout that provides a uniquely effective form of physical exercise to people who are living with Parkinson’s. Though it may seem surprising, this non-contact, boxing-inspired fitness routine is proving to dramatically improve the ability of people with Parkinson’s to live independent lives.
Contact us about Rock Steady Boxing at the YMCA
Have a question about how you can benefit from Rock Steady Boxing? Contact us using this form!
About Rock Steady Boxing at the YMCA
What Are the Physical Benefits of Rock Steady Boxing?
Rock Steady Boxing training offers numerous benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s. Scientific research highlights that regular exercise reduces muscle stiffness, enhances balance, and improves motion.
RSB sessions actively help participants at all stages of Parkinson’s improve posture, gait, flexibility, and resistance to injury while fostering healing and happiness. Increasing physical activity to at least 2.5 hours weekly significantly slows the decline in quality of life, making RSB an effective and uplifting option for managing Parkinson’s symptoms.
Who teaches Rock Steady Boxing at the YMCA?
Rock Steady Boxing at the YMCA is currently available at the Macomb Family YMCA, taught by nationally certified personal trainer Mark Losinski. As an RSB-trained professional, Mark is able to customize fitness programs based on the individual needs of each participant, to target specific impairments. Mark can help clients of all kinds to:
- Improve their confidence
- Decrease the severity of PD symptoms
- Experience reduced fear of falling down
- Perform daily activities more efficiently with higher quality
- Understand physicality better and improve self-management
- Be able to perform activities that many of us take for granted, like climbing stairs, entering a vehicle, and simply standing up and walking across the room. Regular training sessions will improve every area of their lives.
Is there medical evidence that shows exercise can help alleviate Parkinson’s Symptoms?
Yes. 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 on this website are for informational purposes only and do not imply a specific endorsement of RSB by the researchers.)
Before beginning any type of exercise program, those with Parkinson’s are encouraged to consult with their physician.
Can anyone with Parkinson’s disease participate… no matter what their age or condition?
A: Nearly everyone with Parkinson’s disease can participate and benefit from Rock Steady Boxing. An evaluation is conducted prior to the first class to determine the recommended class level. Some participants will require a caregiver partner to assist in each session. Individuals of all ages are benefiting from the Rock Steady Boxing’s program. We strongly encourage you to also discuss participation with your physician prior to your first workout.