LIVunLtd & Rock Steady Boxing: Empowering Lives Through Movement and Community
Philip Ritchy, director of fitness operations and facility management, established Rock Steady Boxing Huntersville in 2017. Rock Steady Boxing is a non-contact fitness program that has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for individuals with Parkinson’s. This innovative program has grown from just one participant in its first class to 51 in a single class. More than 230 individuals with Parkinson’s – some from as far away as Hawaii and California — have participated in the past eight years. The supportive community fostered by Rock Steady Boxing is one of its most remarkable aspects. Participants, known as boxers, support and encourage each other, creating a family-like atmosphere that provides both physical and emotional support.
Philip was recently recognized at a Davidson College basketball game as a “Hometown Hero” for his work supporting Parkinson’s patients. To honor his impact, Philip was presented with a donation to the Carolinas Chapter of the Parkinson’s Foundation in his name. Congratulations, Philip!
Rock Steady History
Rock Steady Boxing was founded by politician Scott Newman in 2006 after he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease at the age of 40. Determined to fight back, he began training with a friend who happened to be a former Golden Gloves boxer. He soon discovered that the training helped alleviate some of his Parkinson’s symptoms, and he began to feel “rock steady.” Fast forward to today when you can find Rock Steady gyms across the globe.
Class Structure and Participation
To prepare for the opening of Rock Steady Boxing at his facility, Philip earned certification through an intensive training program, covering topics such as understanding Parkinson’s, class structure, and safety. The training includes practical boxing exercises and emphasizes training participants safely and effectively.
Each class is supported by 6 to 10 specially trained coaches, including fitness staff and caregivers who have become certified in the program. The program emphasizes a hands-off approach to encourage independence among participants. It is open to both men and women, with participants ranging in age from 35 to 91 years old. Coaches are trained to accommodate participants with varying degrees of mobility, with some using wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
“One of my boxers is a 75-year-old woman who has probably never punched anything in her entire life. When she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s she had the courage and confidence to come and put her gloves on and hit heavy bags,” said Philip. “She has 10 grandkids who come and watch her fight, and it’s really inspiring to see.”
HFFA offers classes five days a week, with sessions during the day and in the evenings to accommodate participants who still work, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to reap the benefits of this innovative program. Participants pay just $30 per month, which includes equipment, unlimited Rock Steady classes, and access to the entire facility, including other fitness classes like Tai Chi, meditation, and water aerobics.
“Philip has poured his heart into Rock Steady, and it shows in the countless lives he’s touched. His passion for this program is truly inspiring, and I’m grateful for the positive change he’s creating in this community,” said Brian Sheehan, CEO of The Amenity Collective, parent company to LIVunLtd.
Physical Impacts of Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s disease can complicate daily activities that were once done easily, such as bathing, dressing, eating, sleeping, and walking. It can also affect mobility, leading to difficulties walking and an increased risk of falls. Some patients experience “freezing” episodes where they temporarily feel as if their feet are glued to the ground. As part of the Rock Steady curriculum, Philip and his team help participants practice falling to mitigate the risk of injury should they experience an unplanned fall and also provide training to assist during freezing episodes.
Benefits of the Program
The physical and mental benefits of Rock Steady Boxing are life-changing for Parkinson’s patients. The program helps improve balance, coordination, and strength through high-intensity interval training and boxing exercises. Many participants experience significant improvements in their daily functioning and independence. Mentally, it boosts confidence and reduces feelings of isolation, as participants form close-knit friendships and support networks.
To find a Rock Steady location near you, please visit: rocksteadyboxing.org
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