Fighting Back: Boxing Class Combats Parkinson’s Disease

Rock Steady Boxing is empowering people all around the world with Parkinson’s to fight back! Their non-profit organization has over 300 gyms where people living with Parkinson’s can participate in non-contact boxing fitness classes. Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative movement disorder which can cause deterioration of motor skills, balance, speech and sensory function. It is estimated that over a million people in the United States are living with the disease and another 60,000 are diagnosed annually. With over 16,000 active members using their program, Rock Steady is fighting back!

About Rock Steady

The first Rock Steady gym was founded in 2006 by Scott Newman, a Prosecutor from Indiana who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the age of 40.  There were several studies done in the 1980’s and 90’s that showed rigorous exercise, balance and core strength can help improve range of motion and flexibility for anyone living with the disease. Scott Newman found this to be true and set off on a mission to grow Rock Steady to a National organization.

They recently celebrated their tenth anniversary as well as opening international locations and even publishing a book “I Am Rock Steady”, which focuses on how 11 different people’s lives have been changed by Rock Steady Boxing. Their website even includes a store with boxing/mobility related clothes and accessories. A few months ago, Rock Steady received a generous donation from the Sallie Mae Fund and plans to help support monthly educational seminars.

If you or someone you know are interested in joining their gym or finding more information visit www.rocksteadyboxing.org.