This post was provided by News Now Warsaw

News Release

WARSAW — The Kosciusko Community YMCA invites people living with Parkinson’s
disease, along with their families and caregivers, to a Rock Steady Boxing open house on
Monday, Sept. 28, from 1–4 p.m. at the Downtown Warsaw YMCA at 575 W. Fort Wayne St., Warsaw.

Rock Steady Boxing is a Parkinson’s-specific exercise program that uses non-contact boxing- inspired movements along with exercises designed to challenge strength, balance, coordination, mobility and overall fitness. Participants work at their own ability level, and exercises can be modified to meet individual needs.

The Open House provides an opportunity to visit the program in a relaxed setting, meet Rock Steady coaches, see the equipment and exercises used in class, and ask questions about whether Rock Steady Boxing might be a good fit. No previous boxing or exercise experience is necessary.

“Rock Steady has become much more than an exercise class for our boxers,” said Tracy Frick, Chronic Disease Coordinator for the Kosciusko Community YMCA. “They challenge one another, encourage one another and build friendships with people who understand what it is like to live with Parkinson’s. We want people in our community to know that they don’t have to be an athlete or have any boxing experience to walk through our doors. We will meet them where they are.”

Beginning in October, the Downtown Warsaw YMCA will offer Rock Steady Boxing three
afternoons each week, with programming designed to better meet participants at different
stages of Parkinson’s:

Mondays — Level 1–2: For boxers who are generally more independent and ready for a higher
level of challenge.
Wednesdays — Level 3–4: Designed for boxers who may benefit from additional assistance,
modifications and a more supported exercise environment.
Fridays — Mixed Levels: Bringing boxers of varying abilities together for a Parkinson’s-specific workout that can be modified for individual needs.

The YMCA also offers Rock Steady Boxing at its North Webster location, helping make
Parkinson’s-specific exercise more accessible to residents throughout Kosciusko County.
Those unable to attend the September event will have another opportunity to learn about the program at the North Webster Rock Steady Boxing Open House on Wednesday, October
28, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. The North Webster YMCA is located within the North Webster
Community Center at 301 N. Main St., North Webster.

For additional information about Rock Steady Boxing or the upcoming Open Houses, contact Tracy Frick at tfrick@kcymca.org.