Frequently asked questions and helpful info
What is Rock Steady?
Rock Steady Boxing Central Kansas (at Residence 600) is a program dedicated to fighting against the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease such as rigidity, freezing gait, falls, etc. The goal is to improve quality of life through a non-contact boxing based fitness curriculum through forced, intense exercise. This can reduce, reverse and delay Parkinson’s symptoms. We incorporate Cycling & Intense Voice & Movement into our RSB classes.
WHO WE ARE…Punchin’ Out Parkinson’s Central Kansas
Is a Not-for-Profit Organization 501 (c) (3) that was formed to help fight back against Parkinson’s Disease. We are driven to not only help those with Parkinson’s Disease, but also those that help care for those with the disease.
What is all offered at Punchin’ Out Parkinson’s Central Kansas?
In conjunction with Rock Steady Boxing Program we have a mission to help not only the fighters but the caregivers: What We Offer…
1. Small Group Fight Classes (Rock Steady Boxing)…offering levels of classes.
2. Yoga & Breathing Classes…this class is for fighters and caregivers.
3. POP Support Group…monthly speakers, presentations, education to ensure that we fight together and fighters and caregivers have the tools and support they need.
4. Camaraderie...we fight together, support each other, tough love.
What is the History of Rock Steady?
Rock Steady Boxing is a one-of-a-kind, Indianapolis-based nonprofit gym founded in 2006 to provide 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. Rock Steady Boxing and the information on this website is not intended or implied to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment of Parkinson’s Disease.
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. (References to any studies on this website are for informational purposes only and do not imply a specific endorsement of RSB by the researchers.) 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. Because of the promising results seen through RSB, the organization has been selected to be a part of research to document the impact of boxing and rigorous exercise on the progression of Parkinson’s. RSB has also drawn the attention of local university researchers, who are now in the process of quantifying and evaluating the results in the people who have continued with RSB.
Can Anyone Participate?
Nearly everyone with Parkinson’s disease can participate and receive benefit from Rock Steady Boxing. An intake evaluation process 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 RSB’s program. We strongly encourage you to also discuss RSB participation with your physician prior to your first workout.
How do I join RSB Central Kansas?
We can set you up to observe a class so that you have a better idea what to expect out of your time here. While here, a coach will be glad to answer any questions and then set up a time to perform an assessment/evaluation to determine what level of boxer you will be. Assessments/Evaluations are not typically performed the same day as an observation.
Do I need a physician’s recommendation to attend RSB?
We recommend every participant have a physician’s release and Rock Steady Boxers should always discuss any form of exercise they are doing inside and outside of RSB with their physicians as part of their overall wellness plan. RSB also requests that individuals with cardiac problems clear their participation with their doctors to make sure that they can participate in activities requiring rigorous exercise.
What if I Can't do Everything as Shown in Class?
The exercise format is adjusted for the needs of those in the class. Modifications are given so that you still get the exercise within your abilities.
Why Choose Cycling?
The real benefits come from what the scientists coin “forced exercise,” going at a faster rate of speed—about 30% ideally—than you normally would. (For most cyclists with Parkinson’s the goal is 80 rpm or higher; many pedal only 40 to 50 rpm on their own.) Cycling is low impact and most people can do it. You can’t force someone to walk faster without an overhead harness in case they fall. But you can get them on a stationary bike and safely push the pace. Depending upon pace and intensity, cycling has been shown to:
• Improve overall motor function
• Reduce tremor
• Reduce bradykinesia
• Reduce rigidity
• Improve aerobic capacity
• Improve mood
• Improve cognitive function
• Increase joy and social connections
Physical & Occupational Therapists
If you are living with Parkinson’s, seeing a physical and/or occupational therapist can help you improve your balance and reduce your risk for falling, improve your ability to walk faster and further, and improve your overall quality of life.
Disclaimer: This FAQ contains general Information about Parkinson’s and insights from the Parkinson’s community. It is not intended as a substitute for treatment advice from a medical professional.
Credits: https://www.rocksteadyboxing.org/
Rock Steady Boxing Central Kansas (at Residence 600) is a program dedicated to fighting against the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease such as rigidity, freezing gait, falls, etc. The goal is to improve quality of life through a non-contact boxing based fitness curriculum through forced, intense exercise. This can reduce, reverse and delay Parkinson’s symptoms. We incorporate Cycling & Intense Voice & Movement into our RSB classes.
WHO WE ARE…Punchin’ Out Parkinson’s Central Kansas
Is a Not-for-Profit Organization 501 (c) (3) that was formed to help fight back against Parkinson’s Disease. We are driven to not only help those with Parkinson’s Disease, but also those that help care for those with the disease.
What is all offered at Punchin’ Out Parkinson’s Central Kansas?
In conjunction with Rock Steady Boxing Program we have a mission to help not only the fighters but the caregivers: What We Offer…
1. Small Group Fight Classes (Rock Steady Boxing)…offering levels of classes.
2. Yoga & Breathing Classes…this class is for fighters and caregivers.
3. POP Support Group…monthly speakers, presentations, education to ensure that we fight together and fighters and caregivers have the tools and support they need.
4. Camaraderie...we fight together, support each other, tough love.
What is the History of Rock Steady?
Rock Steady Boxing is a one-of-a-kind, Indianapolis-based nonprofit gym founded in 2006 to provide 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. Rock Steady Boxing and the information on this website is not intended or implied to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment of Parkinson’s Disease.
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. (References to any studies on this website are for informational purposes only and do not imply a specific endorsement of RSB by the researchers.) 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. Because of the promising results seen through RSB, the organization has been selected to be a part of research to document the impact of boxing and rigorous exercise on the progression of Parkinson’s. RSB has also drawn the attention of local university researchers, who are now in the process of quantifying and evaluating the results in the people who have continued with RSB.
Can Anyone Participate?
Nearly everyone with Parkinson’s disease can participate and receive benefit from Rock Steady Boxing. An intake evaluation process 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 RSB’s program. We strongly encourage you to also discuss RSB participation with your physician prior to your first workout.
How do I join RSB Central Kansas?
We can set you up to observe a class so that you have a better idea what to expect out of your time here. While here, a coach will be glad to answer any questions and then set up a time to perform an assessment/evaluation to determine what level of boxer you will be. Assessments/Evaluations are not typically performed the same day as an observation.
Do I need a physician’s recommendation to attend RSB?
We recommend every participant have a physician’s release and Rock Steady Boxers should always discuss any form of exercise they are doing inside and outside of RSB with their physicians as part of their overall wellness plan. RSB also requests that individuals with cardiac problems clear their participation with their doctors to make sure that they can participate in activities requiring rigorous exercise.
What if I Can't do Everything as Shown in Class?
The exercise format is adjusted for the needs of those in the class. Modifications are given so that you still get the exercise within your abilities.
Why Choose Cycling?
The real benefits come from what the scientists coin “forced exercise,” going at a faster rate of speed—about 30% ideally—than you normally would. (For most cyclists with Parkinson’s the goal is 80 rpm or higher; many pedal only 40 to 50 rpm on their own.) Cycling is low impact and most people can do it. You can’t force someone to walk faster without an overhead harness in case they fall. But you can get them on a stationary bike and safely push the pace. Depending upon pace and intensity, cycling has been shown to:
• Improve overall motor function
• Reduce tremor
• Reduce bradykinesia
• Reduce rigidity
• Improve aerobic capacity
• Improve mood
• Improve cognitive function
• Increase joy and social connections
Physical & Occupational Therapists
If you are living with Parkinson’s, seeing a physical and/or occupational therapist can help you improve your balance and reduce your risk for falling, improve your ability to walk faster and further, and improve your overall quality of life.
Disclaimer: This FAQ contains general Information about Parkinson’s and insights from the Parkinson’s community. It is not intended as a substitute for treatment advice from a medical professional.
Credits: https://www.rocksteadyboxing.org/
Helpful Info
Gym Membership Reimbursement Many insurance companies offer discounts for gym memberships and will reimburse a boxer for part of a gym membership (which may include RSB).
Medical Need Note
Boxers can ask their physician to write a “Medical Need Note” if they are still working and need to leave in the middle of the day to participate in Rock Steady Boxing classes.
Health Savings Account
If a boxer’s insurance plan offers a health savings account (HSA), some of those funds may be used for a gym membership. This will need to be approved by the health insurance carrier and may require additional documentation from the RSB program or coach.