A GROUP of Port Macquarie residents living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) have discovered that boxing offers more than physical exercise, providing friendship, confidence and community.
The Parkies Boxing program operates through Port Macquarie Boxing, a not-for-profit organisation serving the community for 28 years.
When asked what prompted him to start Parkies Boxing, head coach Dean Groth answered with one word: “Eddie.”
10 years ago, Groth’s colleague Eddie lost her husband to Parkinson’s disease.
Around the same time, he learned about a similar boxing initiative in Tasmania.
Together, the pair established the local program.
Participants Ross and Tony described benefits including improved strength, coordination, balance and fitness.
“It’s not just about boxing. It’s about keeping active, working on your coordination and balance, and having a good group of people around you,” Ross said.
Ross laughed, adding, “We’re the PD bashers.”
Participants also value individual attention from trainers and opportunities to practise boxing techniques, including sparring.
“Keeping up the exercise has helped me stay more stable,” Tony said.
The group acknowledged that some people might hesitate because of concerns about fitness, balance or feeling self-conscious.
“You don’t have to be fit to come along. You just come as you are, and the exercises can be adapted to what you’re able to do,” Dean said.
By Rasa KABAILA
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
