Every day in Kara Griffith’s boxing class at Family Health West is a celebration of success. This is no ordinary workout—this is the turf of adults in their 60s, 70s and 80s who are fighting Parkinson’s Disease—and winning. 

 Griffith launched Family Health West’s Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) program to help people with Parkinson’s improve their quality of life through exercise. The no-contact program uses boxing-inspired fitness routines that are low impact and tailored to each participant’s abilities.

“There is still so much we don’t know about Parkinsons, and I can help people who want to help themselves. I love that people come here to work hard, slowing the progression and minimizing their symptoms over time,” Griffith said.

MORE THAN A WORKOUT

 RSB was founded in 2006 by Scott C. Newman, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 40. In a defiant stance against doctors who gave him little hope, Newman began training with his friend Vince Perez, a former Golden Gloves boxer. He discovered that boxing drills and conditioning exercises addressed many of the physical challenges associated with Parkinson’s, including tremors, balance issues and stiffness.

Newman soon started a support group for people with young-onset Parkinson’s. With help from professional boxer Kristy Rose Follmar, he created RSB, which is now offered worldwide.

Griffith, an exercise physiologist, has worked with older adults for more than 20 years. When she learned about the RSB affiliate program in Delta, she pitched the idea to Family Health West. In 2018, she completed training to become an affiliate.

“I was really blown away by the program,” said Griffith. “I felt called to work with the Parkinson’s community. I didn’t plan it this way, but it was perfect timing that I opened the same month as Parkinson’s Awareness Month.” 

 Ed Jaros works hand-eye coordination with the rebounding reflex bag.

 Volunteers help Griffith lead classes that include cardio, balance, strength, agility, coordination and cognitive exercises. 

For Bob Hammon, 72, the class has become one of the best parts of his routine.

“A friend of mine recommended it to me six years ago,” said Hammon. “It taught me what my limits are, and other than making me stronger and more flexible, the social aspect cannot be underestimated.”  

Over the years, Hammon has watched participation grow from six people to about 15, along with an expanded schedule that now runs Monday through Friday.

John Shields, 72, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2016. As his symptoms worsened, he experienced setbacks with coordination and muscle loss. Three years ago, he decided to give boxing a try.

“I found I wasn’t moving around very much. I was getting stiff when I got up in the morning,” Shields said.

Now he is working to rebuild strength and stay active. In the summer, he even rides his bike to class.

Every day is a success story. Griffith described participants regaining the ability to button shirt cuffs or use chopsticks. Improvements in balance, appearance and mental health are significant. 

WHAT IS PARKINSONS?

 Barbara Patterson uses the punching bag to improve balance, coordination and strength.

 According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects dopamine-producing neurons.

Symptoms can include tremors, stiffness, slowed movement and nonmotor issues such as depression or sleep problems. While there is no cure, treatments and ongoing research can help improve quality of life and advance earlier diagnosis.

Scientists believe Parkinson’s is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Dr. Verne Smith, 84, a former geriatrician in the early stages of Parkinson’s, said he loves the boxing exercises. 

“What you’re doing is getting all of your muscle groups moving, and moving in different directions at different speeds,” Smith said. “That’s good for a person with Parkinson’s.”

GOING THE DISTANCE

April marks the eighth anniversary of Family Health West’s RSB program.

“We’re excited to celebrate and bring awareness in April, celebrate the anniversary, and we have some fun socials planned,” said Robyn Darnell, public relations and communications coordinator for Family Health West.

Anyone who qualifies can participate in RSB classes. Insurance and referrals are not required.

Griffith encourages anyone interested to schedule a time to observe a class, talk with participants and learn how the program has helped them. 

“There are different levels of instruction, depending on health history, orthopedic conditions and Parkinson’s symptoms—all of those variables go into determining what is the right class level for people,” Griffith said. “If you can get here, I can help you.” 

For more information about Rock Steady Boxing in Fruita, visit FHW.org. To schedule a time to observe a class, call Griffith at 970-858-2502. For more information about classes in Delta, contact Jan Blue at 210-415-4550.