Jojo McDuffie is the Director of Corporate Affiliate Partnerships for Rock Steady Boxing. In this podcast episode we're highlighting this extraordinary program that is making waves in the Parkinson's disease community.
Understanding Parkinson's Disease and the Role of Exercise
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects over a million people in the United States alone, with approximately 90,000 new cases diagnosed each year. This disorder is particularly prevalent in minority groups, such as the Hispanic community, and is increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals under the age of 50, known as young-onset Parkinson's disease. The best medicine for managing Parkinson's symptoms, aside from prescribed treatments from neurologists, is consistent and intensive exercise.
Introducing Rock Steady Boxing
Rock Steady Boxing is a groundbreaking program designed to improve the quality of life for people living with Parkinson's disease through boxing-inspired exercise. Jojo McDuffie, the Director of Corporate Affiliate Partnerships at Rock Steady Boxing, shared profound insights into how the program works and its impact on the community.
The Genesis of Rock Steady Boxing
Founded by Scott Newman, a former prosecutor diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's disease at the age of 40, Rock Steady Boxing began as a personal journey towards better health. Scott's friend, a Golden Gloves boxer, started training him in boxing and strength exercises. Over time, this customized exercise regimen grew into a comprehensive program known as Rock Steady Boxing.
Comprehensive, Boxing-Inspired Exercise
The essence of Rock Steady Boxing lies in its multimodal approach, focusing on forced intensity exercises unique to boxing training. These exercises help improve balance, strength, gait, and even voice control for participants. Jojo explains that the benefits extend beyond gym sessions, positively affecting participants' daily lives.
Collaborative Effort with Clinicians
A vital element to the success of Rock Steady Boxing is its collaboration with clinicians. The organization has fostered relationships with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and neurologists to ensure a comprehensive approach to managing Parkinson's disease. This collaboration has led to the development of clinician-specific training, bridging the gap between clinical treatment and daily exercise.
Becoming a Rock Steady Boxing Coach or Affiliate
Rock Steady Boxing offers a unique opportunity for fitness professionals to make a meaningful impact. Coaches are typically required to have a personal training or group exercise certification accredited by the NCCA. Potential coaches attend a two-day intensive training camp, learning the Rock Steady Boxing method, which is backed by evidence-based research. Affiliates can operate in various spaces, from gyms to senior living communities, with a range of equipment from boxing bags to resistance bands. The organization provides marketing support, training, and resources to help affiliates connect with the local Parkinson's community and establish successful programs.
Inspiring Stories from the Community
Jojo shared inspiring stories from participants and affiliates, highlighting the transformative power of the program. One notable story involved a participant who, after months of training, regained the strength and balance needed to enjoy a bath independently. These testimonials validate the program's success and its profound impact on participants' lives.
What's Next for Rock Steady Boxing?
The future of Rock Steady Boxing looks promising as the organization aims to increase its number of affiliates, enhance equipment access, and stay updated with the latest research. They are actively seeking partners to join the fight against Parkinson's disease and expand their services worldwide.
Join the Movement
If you're interested in becoming a Rock Steady Boxing coach or starting an affiliate, Jojo encourages you to visit [rocksteadyboxing.org](http://rocksteadyboxing.org). Potential coaches and affiliates can receive comprehensive training and support from the organization to make a significant impact in their communities.
Links for Rock Steady Boxing and Jojo:
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