When Coach Jeff R. first heard about Rock Steady Boxing in 2008, his grandfather had just been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. While the program was still in its infancy, Jeff saw potential in combining his martial arts expertise with a cause close to his heart. 

Today, as director and head coach of Rock Steady Boxing at The Commons on Marice in Eagan, MN, a community managed by The Goodman Group, Jeff has transformed that early inspiration into a lifeline for residents facing Parkinson's.

"Exercise and boxing. Those are two scary words for most people walking through our doors," Jeff admits. Nobody in his classes arrives with boxing experience, and many haven't exercised regularly in years. Yet within two weeks, he witnesses remarkable transformations that go far beyond physical fitness.

Building Confidence Through Movement

At the heart of Jeff's approach lies a simple truth. Parkinson's impacts the brain first. 

While many focus on the visible symptoms like walking, Jeff understands that boxing's combination of numbers and movement directly engages the neurological aspects of this movement disorder. Left-hand punches are odd numbers, right-hand punches are even. This is a cognitive exercise that remains engaging even after years of practice.

"We keep classes at fifteen people or less," Jeff explains. This personal setting allows the program to adapt as participants' needs change, incorporating Parkinson's-specific physical therapy exercises alongside traditional boxing techniques. 

The focus remains on building strength for balance, improving agility and preventing falls. All while maintaining an atmosphere where chairs are always available for breaks and participants move at their own pace.

Stories of Transformation

The impact of Jeff's coaching takes on a whole new meaning for his participants. 

Gene's story exemplifies this transformation. His movements have become steadier and more controlled. In three years, he's experienced just one fall with no injury. A significant improvement from his previous frequent falls. 

Perhaps more importantly, Gene has rediscovered his social nature. As a former airline pilot who was always gregarious, he has reconnected with others in meaningful ways through the program's supportive community.

Paul's journey offers another powerful testament to the program's effectiveness. Arriving at his first class using a four-wheel walker and working to remain upright, Paul was a little unsure. 

Within months, his dedication grew; eventually working up to attending Rock Steady Boxing five days a week between The Commons on Marice and The Lakes at Stillwater, also managed by The Goodman Group.  His commitment yielded extraordinary results. 

Now, Paul walks without any assistive device, and observers would never know about his previous experiences with falls.

Terrie, diagnosed at a younger age, faced the idea of navigating decades ahead with a progressive condition. 

Before Rock Steady Boxing, she was ready to give up golf, the sport she'd enjoyed for 30 years, due to constant exhaustion. Now, she's hitting the ball better than ever. She hasn't experienced any falls, her overall fitness has improved, and her symptoms have stabilized rather than progressed. 

The program has given her both physical strength and the confidence to keep enjoying the activities she loves.

A Partnership in hope

"Without their willingness to participate, they wouldn't be in the condition that they're in," Jeff says of his boxers. The motivation flows both ways; their dedication and progress inspire him to show up every day with new exercises and encouragement.

Currently, exercise remains the only proven method to slow Parkinson's progression. While medications treat symptoms, Rock Steady Boxing offers something more. Hope. 

Within six months, Jeff often sees participants in better shape than they've been in a decade, returning to activities they'd written off forever.

"My favorite part is just getting to know everybody," Jeff shares. Each person brings a unique life story, and understanding what matters to them helps Jeff tailor exercises to meet their specific goals.

For those considering Rock Steady Boxing, Jeff says, "You're going to have a lot of support, we're going to listen to you, there is absolutely no judgment when you come through those doors." 

Regardless of boxing or exercise experience, he promises to spend whatever time necessary to help new participants feel comfortable. And they'll meet remarkable people walking similar paths, all proving that their best years might still lie ahead.