Parkinson’s Awareness Month is observed in April, and The Cardinal at North Hills, a premier Kisco Senior Living community, is giving the disease a one-two punch, literally. Rock Steady Boxing is a unique exercise program based on training used by boxing pros and adapted for people with living with Parkinson’s disease. The program starts this month and is open to residents and their families. Rock Steady Boxing involves regular exercises such as stretching, bicycling, running, jumping rope, push-ups, balancing and non-contact boxing. Each class is led by experienced trainers, all of whom are officially certified by Rock Steady Boxing.
“We are proud to be the first senior living community in Raleigh to offer this valuable program,” said Susan Drury-Rohner, wellness director at The Cardinal of North Hills. “Studies show that boxing has a positive impact on those living with Parkinson’s disease. I was able to experience some of the benefits myself when I had the privilege of attending training for the Rock Steady Program. I have never laughed and cried so much over the course of three days. It’s clear this cutting-edge program centers on comradery, friendship and tough love. I’m thrilled this program will enhance our residents’ quality of life and make our wellness program more inclusive.”
The Cardinal at North Hills became a Rock Steady Boxing affiliate thanks in part to resident Harold Huberfeld. Previously, the community drove Huberfeld to a class at a gym in Cary three times a week.
“Huberfeld shared the positive impact it was having on him, and after some research, it became a “no-brainer” to bring it to The Cardinal at North Hills,” said Drury-Rohner.
“This program has been a game changer for me when it comes to combating this disease,” said Huberfeld. “Staying active has allowed me to fight back while doctors search for a cure. I’m looking forward to sharing this amazing class with my neighbors and having fun doing it.”
The Rock Steady Boxing method was developed by Vince Perez and Scott Newman in Indianapolis over the course of seven years. The two created the program after Newman was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s at the age of 40. Perez used his experience as a Golden Gloves boxer to create a program that attacks Parkinson’s at its most vulnerable neurological points. A recent study by the Cleveland Clinic found the intense “forced” exercise may be neuro-protective, meaning it is effective at slowing down Parkinson’s progression. Rock Steady Boxing clients and academic institutions, such as the University of Indianapolis and Butler University, are documenting the improved quality of life among boxers.
“We have always believed in the Rock Steady Boxing Method,” said Joyce Johnson, executive director of Rock Steady Boxing Inc. “When evidence began to emerge that our program had a very positive impact on the ‘boxers,’ our mission became clear – to share our knowledge and experience with all people with Parkinson’s.”
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, more than 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s, and more than 60,000 Americans are diagnosed each year. With the number of diagnoses continuing to grow, the community wants to be resource for patients and the community.
“We’re pleased to offer innovative programming at The Cardinal at North Hills and provide a variety of exercise options,” said Tom Ford, executive director of The Cardinal at North Hills. “Our goal is to cater to the needs of current and future residents. This class is just one example of the culture of wellness The Cardinal promotes. Our award-winning program, The Art of Living Well®, focuses on the whole-person. Throughout the year we are delighted to offer activities that engage residents’ emotional, physical, social and spiritual health.”