Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) is an accredited exercise program specifically designed for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. RSB focuses on improving the quality of life of individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease through a non-contact boxing-based curriculum. RSB allows participants to literally fight back against the symptoms of the disease while helping ease rigidity of movement and improving strength, coordination, balance, mental focus, and confidence. Most importantly, it helps those with Parkinson’s Disease improve their quality of life, whether they have lived with the disease for many years or have been recently diagnosed, by building self-esteem and enjoying a sense of teamwork and camaraderie with others in the class. The RSB classes are designed to push participants physically while maintaining a focus on safety.
RSB boxing classes take place twice a week for 60 to 90 minutes each session. The exercise regimen within the class changes weekly, but all classes include a variety of warm-up and stretching exercises, RSB boxing classes take place twice a week for 60 to 90 minutes each session. The exercise regimen within the class changes weekly, but all classes include a variety of warm-up and stretching exercises,
RSB boxing classes take place twice a week for 60 to 90 minutes each session. The exercise regimen within the class changes weekly, but all classes include a variety of warm-up and stretching exercises, balance, gait, and strength training paired with non-contact boxing and coordination drills.
Participants learn how to hit punching bags with different combinations. The repetitive motions involved helps to train the brain and improve coordination. The stretching and twisting motions involved in boxing help to keep muscles flexible and prevent stiffness. The constant shifting of weight during boxing helps to improve balance and prevent falls. The aerobic nature of boxing helps to increase endurance and strengthens the heart muscle. And finally, the RSB program creates a positive and supportive community in which participants feel safe and empowered to combat a disease that aims to take their control away.
The RSB program starts with an initial evaluation with trained staff to gather participant information and assess the functional status and fall risk. The assessment is followed by observation of a class and/or participation in a Rock Steady Boxing class. If a Parkinson’s Disease patient has advanced stages of the disease, they are asked to be accompanied by a care partner or “Corner Man”, who will work closely with the RSB coaches to help spot and support them during the workout.
To see our current class schedule for Rock Steady Boxing, please visit our page on the Rock Steady Boxing Headquarters website by clicking here: Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing is brought to Putnam County through a partnership between the Putnam County Council on Aging, The Leipsic Community Center, Putnam County YMCA, and Mercy Health Physical Therapy at the YMCA.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rock Steady Boxing
What do I wear to class? Wear comfortable, breathable clothes that allow you to move freely. It is recommended that you layer clothing in case you get too hot or too cold. Please wear good supportive shoes. Gym shoes/tennis shoes are preferred.
Where are the classes being held? Rock Steady Boxing classes in Putnam County are currently being held at two locations:
- The Leipsic Community Center, 120 E. Main Street, Leipsic, OH on Tuesday and Friday afternoon from 12:30 to 1:30 pm and 2:00 to 3:00 pm.
- The Putnam County YMCA, 101 Putnam Parkway, Ottawa, OH on Thursday afternoon from 1:00 to 2:00 pm.
Do I need to buy anything for the class? For hygienic reasons, we recommend that you purchase your own boxing gloves and wraps for the class. You can purchase them at a discounted rate at the Council on Aging. But please know that you do NOT have to have boxing gloves to participate in the program.
What do I need 
to bring to class? Be sure to bring your boxing gloves and hand wraps if you have them. We recommend that you bring a bottle of water so that you can stay hydrated throughout the class.
What if I don’t like exercise or haven’t exercised in a long time? Research is proving the importance of exercise in the life of a person with Parkinson’s. The statement “use it or lose it” truly applies to anyone diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. If Parkinson’s disease and its symptoms are not met with resistance, the disease will likely take the path of least resistance, progressing more rapidly than without exercise intervention.
What if I can’t keep up? It is important that at any time you feel you cannot keep up, become frustrated or not being able to perform at the level of the people around you, than you communicate with your coaches. They can offer modifications and suggestions on alternative training methods to help you focus on specific symptoms and challenges. Do not do any exercises that you are uncomfortable doing. Talk to your coaches first if you are unsure of a specific exercise. If you need to take a break you are welcome to sit and take a breather! We would rather have you take a break than to quit the workout early from over-doing it.
What if I can’t come to classes all the time? Even if you can only come once a week or a few times a month, you can benefit from attending class. Rock Steady Boxing is more than just an exercise program – friendships are formed, care partners make connections, and participants learn valuable skills in order to better function in daily life away from the gym.
What if I am embarrassed by my Parkinson’s to join? We understand the self-consciousness that accompanies Parkinson’s. Rock Steady was created as a safe haven for people with Parkinson’s to share a sense of community, re-establish their self-esteem, and most of all, to not feel alone as they “fight back.”
Will Rock Steady Boxing benefit me since my Parkinson’s has progressed too far? Even if your Parkinson’s has progressed to using a walker or a wheelchair, you can benefit from the Rock Steady Boxing program. Exercises are always modified based on each individual’s ability.
What if I don’t have transportation to the class? If you need transportation to the RSB classes, the Council on Aging can transport you as long as you are a Putnam County resident, age 60 and better. You will need to call in advance to be added to our schedule. Please note, our schedule fills up quickly.
What does it cost to participate in the Rock Steady Boxing Program? There is a nominal fee to attend Rock Steady Boxing classes. This will be discussed further once you meet with the coach for your initial evaluation and assessment. There is no charge for “corner partners” to attend the classes.
For more information or to sign up for Rock Steady Boxing Putnam County, please call Christie Geller at the Putnam County Council on Aging at 419-523-4121 or toll-free 1-877-796-1760.