Rock Steady Boxing, a unique exercise program, based on training used by boxing pros, and adapted to people with Parkinson’s disease, will now be available in the Troy area.
The program involves regular exercises, such as stretching, running, jumping rope, push-ups, balancing and lots of non-contact boxing, led by experienced trainers and coaches. Rock Steady Boxing serves both men and women of all ages and levels of ability and will be available at The Boxing Rink (1705 Austin Drive Troy, MI 48083), which is owned and operated by professional boxing trainer, Michael Martelli.
“We saw there was a need in the area with so many people suffering from Parkinson’s disease,” says Michael Martelli, professional boxing coach, CPT and owner of The Boxing Rink. “We wanted to help and worked quickly to fill this need with the assistance of our in-house personal trainer Carol Schram who has been personally affected by Parkinson’s since her husband was diagnosed with the disease in 2011.”
Rock Steady Boxing, Inc., a non-profit organization, was founded in Indianapolis in 2006 with six participants. The Rock Steady Boxing Method was developed over the course of seven years. In 2012, the Training Camp was launched to share the Rock Steady Boxing Method and help others with Parkinson’s disease fight back – worldwide. Today, there are 80 Rock Steady Boxing affiliates in 27 states, as well as international affiliates in Australia and Canada, with more than 200 certified Rock Steady Boxing Coaches in the world, and growing every day.
It is estimated that 1-1.5 million Americans have Parkinson’s disease, with as many as an estimated 30,000 diagnosed in Michigan.
“We are fortunate to be able to bring this program to The Boxing Rink in Troy,” says Carol Schram, certified personal trainer and certified Rock Steady boxing coach. “I have seen the benefits first hand of the Rock Steady boxing method helping those with Parkinson’s dramatically improve their daily functioning. I’m excited to have Mike’s support as he will begin training next week for his Rock Steady certification, too.”
“We have always believed in the Rock Steady Boxing Method,” said Rock Steady Boxing, Inc. Executive Director Joyce Johnson. “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. That is why we decided to make our training available worldwide – to train as many as we can so together we can improve the care of people with Parkinson’s everywhere.”
To further enhance the Rock Steady boxing program, The Boxing Rink will also incorporate yoga as part of its membership. Deb Colling, CPT and head yoga instructor at The Boxing Rink and Deyoga Room will be heading up the Parkinson’s disease yoga stretch classes. Research proves regular stretching and certain postures can help increase motor function, mobility, balance, and strength and more.
Assessments and registration for Rock Steady Boxing at The Boxing Rink begin January 19, 2016. Contact Michael Martelli at 248-817-5243 with questions. For additional information about Rock Steady Boxing Troy, visit www.theboxingrink.com. To find out more about Rock Steady Boxing Inc. and Parkinson’s disease, visit www.rocksteadyboxing.org and www.parkinsonsmi.org.
The Boxing Rink provides comprehensive sports conditioning services, boxing training and classes for people of all ages and ability. The 6,100-square foot facility features a 20-foot boxing ring, 20 110-pound hydro-heavy bags, a fully equipped free weight area, and 2,000-square feet of open mat space for cardio conditioning, agility and boot camp training. The Boxing Rink also includes the Deyoga Room, offering heated yoga classes.