Rock Steady Boxing, a unique exercise program, based on training used by boxing pros, and adapted to people with Parkinson’s disease, is available in the Boothbay area. The program involves regular exercises, such as stretching, bicycling, running, jumproping, push-ups, balancing, and lots of non-contact boxing, led by experienced trainers/coaches.

Rock Steady Boxing serves both men and women of all ages and levels of ability. The Boothbay Region YMCA has been offering this program (as well as a similar program, Boxing for Parkinson’s) free for members for several years. The Parkinson’s Disease Foundation estimates there are more than 1 million people in the United States diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, with more than 60,000 people being diagnosed each year.

“We are fortunate to be able to have this program in Boothbay,” said Robin Maginn, who successfully completed the Rock Steady Boxing Certification Training, and is certified to offer Rock Steady Boxing training classes to individuals with Parkinson’s disease who live in the area. Classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

The Rock Steady Boxing Method was developed in Indianapolis over the course of seven years. In 2012, the Training was launched to share the Rock Steady Boxing Method with other people who are fighting back against Parkinson’s. Today, there are over 770 Rock Steady Boxing affiliate programs around the world, initiated by certified Rock Steady Boxing “Coaches.” All coaches completed the requirements of Rock Steady Boxing and have been officially certified.

“Since its inception, there has always been something special about the Rock Steady Boxing Method,” said Rock Steady Boxing, Inc. President Ryan Cotton. “In 2006 when Rock Steady was founded, there was little scientific evidence for this method of exercise. Today, there is growing scientific evidence supporting the Rock Steady method. We can confidently say that participants in Rock Steady have few falls, better balance, and better quality of life. Regular and consistent exercise is now considered an essential component for the management of Parkinson’s symptoms.”

Additional information about Rock Steady Boxing Inc. and Parkinson’s disease is available at www.rocksteadyboxing.org.