In 2012, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. A year and a half later, we decided to retire a little early and now spend most of our time on Isla Mujeres, Mexico. When I heard about rock steady boxing, I was interested, but spent so little time in the states, I never made it to a class. As luck would have it, a Mexican boxing legend lives on our street, and I asked him if he would take me on. He said yes. So now, I take private boxing lessons in a home backyard gym with chickens and ducks, and with an instructor who doesn't speak a lick of English. I wouldn't have it any other way. Torrero knows just how far to push me and I stagger home everyday completely wet with sweat and completely spent. He is determined that I will reach my full potential and is a wonderful teacher/coach/friend. I feel stronger and more balanced because of this class. I don't always feel like going but torrero, after every class, says, "mañana", and I know how important it is to keep going. On the flip side, my husband and I take salsa classes three or four times a week. Viva Mexico!
Hi Sarah, as you know I’m an RSB coach from January 2014: I’m managing 2 classes one of PD 3 and one of PD 1/2. We built a program for separated classes on Tuesday and Thursday, but all together on Saturday. Usually we are 3 or 4 coaches per class, so if one needs a one to one attention, we can do it. We have a lot of fun! Ciao!
After watching your video, I can't help but get the feeling you have never personally visited or viewed a Rock Steady Boxing class. I applaud you for serving the PD community, but your video falls short in a couple areas. In regards to the different levels. Every boxer in RSB, before taking a class is required to get a sign off from their physician and attend an intake session with an RSB trainer. During intake, we conduct a medical background questionnaire with the prospective boxer and their caretaker to include the PDQ-39 form. After the interview, we then conduct a physical assessment utilizing the following; The Fullerton Advanced Balance Assessment, a Timed Up and Go test, and a 30-second sit to stand test. Only after the aforementioned is completed, are they admitted into the program and assigned to one of the 4 different levels of RSB classes. Level 1 is for young onset and fully functional, all the way to 4 which requires high levels of supervision. Which brings me to the other point in your video, supervision. For those boxers that do require supervision. We require they bring a caretaker or (cornerman) as we call them. Between the cornerman and our staff, these classes are thoroughly supervised and limited to small numbers to allow for a safe and productive environment. Our location has padded 5/8 foam martial arts mats, and our equipment is wrapped in 1/2 inch foam padding as well. However, we realize that freezing and falls are going to happen, so we train all of our boxers on freezing/unfreezing techniques as well as proper methods of breaking your fall. Lastly, you mentioned that a group class is not the best place for someone that may have injuries. While there is some truth to this, I would argue that our program, much like many group fitness programs out there (crossfit, HIT, etc) can provide modifications that will allow the person to participate to their fullest ability. Also, our facility also has personal training, so many of our boxers with injuries often take this route. One of the best things about group fitness is the social aspect. Many of our boxers will tell you that often times having PD will greatly affect their social lives. Our boxers have made new friends and developed deep relationships with others fighting PD, this goes for their spouses and caretakers. I see that you are in the Austin area. I would encourage you to visit on of the local RSB facilities and see for yourself the work they are doing. We partner with many PT's and OT's and have a great relationship, seeing as our parkies tend to benefit from all the services. Thanks!
I think that Rock Steady Boxing is one of the best things I have done for myself since my diagnosis. I have met others in my community who are dealing with this same thing and there is some strength in seeing with my own eyes, that I am not alone. We work out really hard. I do that in addition to a visit to my local gym about 2 other times a week. I also took your advice and got evaluated by a PT who specializes in PD. That was a great idea as well. Thank you for all your videos. Having your videos and help is another great blessing. Thank you!
What fitness classes do you attend to help your Parkinson's symptoms? How has it worked so far?
In 2012, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. A year and a half later, we decided to retire a little early and now spend most of our time on Isla Mujeres, Mexico. When I heard about rock steady boxing, I was interested, but spent so little time in the states, I never made it to a class. As luck would have it, a Mexican boxing legend lives on our street, and I asked him if he would take me on. He said yes. So now, I take private boxing lessons in a home backyard gym with chickens and ducks, and with an instructor who doesn't speak a lick of English. I wouldn't have it any other way. Torrero knows just how far to push me and I stagger home everyday completely wet with sweat and completely spent. He is determined that I will reach my full potential and is a wonderful teacher/coach/friend. I feel stronger and more balanced because of this class. I don't always feel like going but torrero, after every class, says, "mañana", and I know how important it is to keep going. On the flip side, my husband and I take salsa classes three or four times a week. Viva Mexico!
What a wonderful find, Debbie! Torrero sounds perfect for what you need - motivational, inspirational, and challenging. Keep it up!!
Hi Sarah, as you know I’m an RSB coach from January 2014: I’m managing 2 classes one of PD 3 and one of PD 1/2. We built a program for separated classes on Tuesday and Thursday, but all together on Saturday. Usually we are 3 or 4 coaches per class, so if one needs a one to one attention, we can do it. We have a lot of fun! Ciao!
That sounds like a solid set up, Tiberio! I'm sure your participants feel supported, challenged, and loved. Keep up the great work. Fight on!!
After watching your video, I can't help but get the feeling you have never personally visited or viewed a Rock Steady Boxing class. I applaud you for serving the PD community, but your video falls short in a couple areas. In regards to the different levels. Every boxer in RSB, before taking a class is required to get a sign off from their physician and attend an intake session with an RSB trainer. During intake, we conduct a medical background questionnaire with the prospective boxer and their caretaker to include the PDQ-39 form. After the interview, we then conduct a physical assessment utilizing the following; The Fullerton Advanced Balance Assessment, a Timed Up and Go test, and a 30-second sit to stand test. Only after the aforementioned is completed, are they admitted into the program and assigned to one of the 4 different levels of RSB classes. Level 1 is for young onset and fully functional, all the way to 4 which requires high levels of supervision. Which brings me to the other point in your video, supervision. For those boxers that do require supervision. We require they bring a caretaker or (cornerman) as we call them. Between the cornerman and our staff, these classes are thoroughly supervised and limited to small numbers to allow for a safe and productive environment. Our location has padded 5/8 foam martial arts mats, and our equipment is wrapped in 1/2 inch foam padding as well. However, we realize that freezing and falls are going to happen, so we train all of our boxers on freezing/unfreezing techniques as well as proper methods of breaking your fall. Lastly, you mentioned that a group class is not the best place for someone that may have injuries. While there is some truth to this, I would argue that our program, much like many group fitness programs out there (crossfit, HIT, etc) can provide modifications that will allow the person to participate to their fullest ability. Also, our facility also has personal training, so many of our boxers with injuries often take this route. One of the best things about group fitness is the social aspect. Many of our boxers will tell you that often times having PD will greatly affect their social lives. Our boxers have made new friends and developed deep relationships with others fighting PD, this goes for their spouses and caretakers. I see that you are in the Austin area. I would encourage you to visit on of the local RSB facilities and see for yourself the work they are doing. We partner with many PT's and OT's and have a great relationship, seeing as our parkies tend to benefit from all the services. Thanks!
I think that Rock Steady Boxing is one of the best things I have done for myself since my diagnosis. I have met others in my community who are dealing with this same thing and there is some strength in seeing with my own eyes, that I am not alone. We work out really hard. I do that in addition to a visit to my local gym about 2 other times a week. I also took your advice and got evaluated by a PT who specializes in PD. That was a great idea as well. Thank you for all your videos. Having your videos and help is another great blessing. Thank you!
awesome
Maria Young, I am looking for a rock Steady Boxing class. I live in Nutley, New Jersey
rocksteadyboxing.org/find-a-class/