Rock Steady Boxing at SSP: Fighting Back Against Parkinson's Disease
August 15, 2024
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Senior Services Plus is an affiliate of the 
Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) program: a health and wellness program designed for people with Parkinson's Disease (PD), a neurological condition that affects balance, strength, and walking. Rock Steady Boxing combines various exercise routines with non-contact boxing to relieve symptoms that people with PD typically experience. According to the American Parkinson's Disease Association, the exercises adapted in RSB, "emphasize agility, speed, endurance, accuracy, hand-eye coordination, footwork, and strength."
"Physical activity has been shown to improve many PD symptoms," states the Parkinson's Foundation, "From balance and mobility issues to depression, constipation, and even thinking skills. In addition, research shows that exercise may have a protective effect on the brain and help slow the progression of the disease." The Rock Steady Boxing program is a great way for those with PD to stay active because, according to the Parkinson's Foundation, non-contact boxing includes key elements such as aerobic activity, strengthening exercises, and stretching.
At Senior Services Plus (SSP), or RSB coaches Mac (pictured right) and Connor (pictured left) work hard to ensure that members are hitting different exercises and meeting their goals. Both coaches have undergone training and received certification to instruct classes. Training includes 100 hours of online training and an in-person coaching session at RSB headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana. Also, to be RSB certified, coaches must hold either a medical-related degree or a person training certification.
Our head coach, Connor, is an ACSM certified personal trainer and holds a Physical Therapist Assistant degree. However, our assistant coach, Mac, received a special exception from Rock Steady Boxing.
"I worked as a volunteer after I'd been participating in Rock Steady for a couple years, and I just enjoyed working with everyone," says Coach Mac, "When RSB found out I had Parkinson's and was doing well in the program, they saw it as an encouragement to others. So, the manager in Indiana encouraged me to get certified and see if I could teach it."
Together, Connor and Mac work to create different workouts each week for the members. They use their creativity and expertise to make fun, engaging exercise programs.
"I enjoy getting to design the workout programs," says Coach Connor, "It's great to see the members complete the exercises and overcome obstacles they never thought they could."
There are three different levels of Rock Steady Boxing classes for different abilities. Level 2 is higher intensity for those with mild symptoms, Level 3 is moderate intensity for those with moderate symptoms, and Level 4 is lower intensity for those with severe symptoms. Each class functions to help members move through Parkinson's symptoms and build their confidence.
Dennis Deluca has been a Rock Steady Boxing member for four months. He has already noticed an improvement in his physical activity. "The biggest change I've seen is my balance and coordination," says Dennis, "They've improved a lot. It was a pleasant surprise for me."
Another RSB member, David Schwaninger, looks fondly upon his decision to join the program. "I was very hesitant at first," he says, "I didn't think it would help. When I finally decided to come, I really enjoyed it. It's good being around other people who are also struggling with Parkinson's."
Rock Steady Boxing has been a successful program at SSP because it has a common goal: to bring together those with PD to improve their overall quality of life.
"Everyone in here immediately has something in common," says Coach Connor, "Being able to have that kind of connection and similar experiences wih others sets is apart from other exercise groups."
SSP's Rock Steady Boxing classes meet twice a week on the following schedule:
- Level 2: Mondays and Thursdays at 3:00pm
- Level 3: Mondays and Thursdays at 2:00pm
- Level 4: Tuesdays and Fridays at 2:00pm
Before entering the program, our RSB coaches will give a physical assessment that includes tests for balance, agility, hand-eye coordination, and more. Members will then be placed in the appropriate class based on ability. All levels are trained to improve functions such as speed of movement, optimal balance, flexibility, footwork, rapid muscle firing, mental focus, and more.
Those interested in the program can speak with one our Rock Steady Boxing coaches by visiting the Wellness Center or calling Coach Connor at 618-465-3298 ext. 120. Another way to learn more about RSB and resources for PD is by visiting our Parkinson's Disease support groups, which meet on the following days:
- PD Support Group: 2nd Wednesday of each month, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
- PD Caretaker Support Group: 2nd Tuesday of each month, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
"Jump in with both feet," is RSB member Dennis's advice to those considering joining, "I've seen what it's done for me in a few short months, and I keep coming back."
To learn more about Rock Steady Boxing at SSP, visit seniorservicesplus.org/rock-steady, or visit rocksteadyboxing.org to view the national program website.
Senior Services Plus, Inc.
Senior Services Plus (SSP) is committed to creating inclusive, diverse, and equitable environments for all. With open arms, we strive to foster a sense of belonging where everyone is valued. As a board, as a staff, and as volunteers we welcome the contributions and participation of all people. We recognize and celebrate that everyone has unique abilities, needs, and experiences and we acknowledge the important of diversity in all its forms. SSP is dedicated to ensuring fair treatment, equity of opportunity, and impartiality in access to information and resources for all. SSP is actively engaged in identifying and dismantling racist and oppressive behaviors, policies, and practices to advance justice and create a more inclusive and equitable society.