PHOENIX — Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the United States with 500,000 Americans diagnosed every year. That's why Rock Steady Gym has opened another location so that many people suffering can look for ways to manage the side effects and symptoms.
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The nonprofit opened in 2016, hosting non-contact boxing classes for patients with Parkinson's.
Their mission is to make a difference by improving the quality of life for those patients. Multiple university studies show the value of exercise and aerobic activity.
Sarah Stockwell with the gym said data shows an increase in brain repair and behavioral recovery.
"This strategy not only helping the boxers themselves but it's good for caregivers too working on their mobility and cognitive function," Stockwell explained.
Stockwell said they conducted a small study with their own boxers in the Rock Steady Boxing Foundation.
"The results are remarkable, we really just need to keep people moving and some even just enjoy listening to the music," Stockwell added.
The results found that all boxers who followed 12 weeks of training saw improvements in their symptoms. That study tracked balance, gait, quality of life, and disability.
One of the participants Jackie said this is a great distraction from a challenger diagnosis.
"I like to get moving and the afternoon class is great because mornings are when I'm at my worst," Jackie explained.
The dozens of participants are grateful for the choreographed steps that help them keep their symptoms of tremors and shaking at bay.
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