Muhammed Ali was one of the greatest boxers in the history of the sport. He was afflicted with Parkinson's Disease, and we now know that a great way to combat the many symptoms of the disease is through physical exercise. Regular activity has shown to improve power, strength, flexibility and speed of motion. I wonder what the progression of the disease in Ali would have been had he not been a boxer.
Rock Steady Boxing is a program originating in Indiana by former Marion County Prosecutor, Scott C. Newman in 2006. Kristy Rose Follmar, a former world champion professional boxer, joined Scott as the head trainer and made invaluable contributions to build the program during its infancy, and continues to do so today. As stated by the Rock Steady Boxing website, "Newman witnessed the dramatic improvement in his physical health, agility and daily functioning through the intense and high energy workouts. Newman's quality of life improved dramatically in a short time due to his fighting back against Parkinson's Disease. Private donations and a personal passion to help others living with Parkinson's allowed Newman to open a small gym and boxing ring in a donated corner of a corporate employee gym as Rock Steady's first home."
My husband, Marc, who was diagnosed with the disease in 2015, and I work out with the Livramento Delgado Boxing Foundation at the Delgado Boxing gym in Sandy Springs, GA. The program offers a great workout for those afflicted, and their significant others. I can attest this is not an easy workout for anyone. The camaraderie of the group is remarkable and has led to some great new friends. Paul "The Truth" Delgado, after a stellar career as a boxing professional and coach, trained at the Rock Steady Boxing program and encourages all of his students to KEEP MOVING.
Please share this information and
video if you know of anyone diagnosed with PD. IT WORKS!
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