Owner, Nikkel Nielsen, started Rock Steady Boxing Gilbert in 2017 with a vision to provide a supportive and empowering community for those living with PD. In 2017, inspired by her mother’s Parkinson’s diagnosed, Nikkel Nielsen founded Rock Steady Boxing Gilbert to create a supportive and empowering community for those impacted by Parkinson’s disease. What began as two classes a week has now expanded to eight, including several evening sessions. In 2020, Nikkel initiated a monthly support group for both boxers and caregivers to address PD-related issues, featuring presentations from therapists and doctors. These support groups and exercise classes have proven to be invaluable benefits to the Parkinson’s community.

“Participating in Moving Day as a team is an opportunity to raise funds for the Parkinson’s Foundation and their mission, increase visibility and promote the benefits of Rock Steady Boxing, and to build a relationship with local organizations and individuals supporting our PD community”, says Coach Nikkel.

The Power of Boxing for Parkinson’s

Rock Steady Boxing is a non-contact boxing program specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s disease. The program combines boxing techniques with strength training and balance exercises to improve physical and mental well-being. By challenging participants to push their limits in a safe and supportive environment, Rock Steady Boxing can help individuals with Parkinson’s:

• Improve physical function: Enhance balance, coordination, and strength.
• Help symptoms: Helps reduce tremors, stiffness, and slowness.
• Foster a sense of community: Connect with others facing similar challenges.
• Boost mental health: Improve mood, reduce anxiety, and increase self-confidence.
For more information about Rock Steady Boxing classes, please email rocksteadygilbert@gmail.com for Gilbert or valleyots@rsbaffiliate.com for Scottsdale.