Indy Boxing Club, Indianapolis

The first boxing program of its kind in the country, Rock Steady Boxing unites people with Parkinson's disease through noncontact-boxing fitness programs. Upon diagnosis, doctors often encourage individuals with Parkinson's to start exercising. However, due to noticeable symptoms of the disease such as tremors, balance difficulties, and softened voices, many individuals with Parkinson’s avoid traditional fitness centers. At Rock Steady Boxing, they can exercise safely, surrounded by peers who are also fighting the disease. Four different levels of classes correspond to the severity of symptoms, which could range from people with recent diagnoses to those using wheelchairs and walkers. Certified coaches lead participants through boxing regimens tailored to the individual's abilities and health concerns, and classes teach the fundamentals of boxing through noncontact workouts designed to boost overall fitness and well-being.