Boxing has emerged as a popular and feasible exercise intervention for people with Parkinson’s disease. Clinical research indicates that boxing, often performed in group settings with PD-specific modifications, can improve balance, physical fitness, and quality of life - although the improvements may be modest and vary by individual. Adding techniques like kicking does not significantly enhance benefits but can increase exercise variety and motivation. Safety is generally good, with few adverse events reported in supervised programs.

1. Boxing with and without Kicking Techniques for People with Parkinson's Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial

2. Boxing with and without Kicking Techniques for People with … - PMC

3. Effects of boxing interventions on physical fitness and health-related quality of life in older people with Parkinson's disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

4. Neuropsychological Effects of Rock Steady Boxing in Patients with Parkinson's Disease: A Comprehensive Analysis

Up Ending Parkinson’s (UEP): Climbing for PD Therapy

Up Ending Parkinson’s (UEP) started in 2012 with the goal of providing accessible and beneficial therapeutic activities for people living with Parkinson's Disease (PD). We have worked with individuals from their mid-thirties to their early 90s and are passionate about using our experience to help others better understand and manage this multifaceted disease.

Website: https://www.upendingparkinsons.org/

Why Climbing?

UEP is dedicated to helping people with PD by raising awareness and making rock climbing an accessible therapy.1 We have seen firsthand its positive impact and recently published a study in the Archives of Physiotherapy (available in the attachment) validating its benefits.

Climbing is a full-body activity performed in a controlled, safe environment.2 It directly challenges and improves skills often affected by PD, including balance, coordination, movement speed, and planning skills.

Our local UEP chapter, started in June 2025, meets every Tuesday from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at:

• Hudson Boulders
  195 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Latham, NY 12110

How to Sign Up

The cost is a $20 day pass, which covers the climbing harness, chalk, and shoe rental.

Trained volunteers are provided for assistance and support.

• Registration: Walk-ins are welcome, or you can call ahead to the gym at (838) 221-7673 or use the online registration link https://hudsonboulders.com/

For more insights, you can view the recent feature on WNYT 13: https://wnyt.com/top-stories/tamara-tries-rock-climbing-for-strength-balance-at-hudson-boulders/

Remember, it’s only UP from here!

Jeremy Wood

Lead Volunteer, Up Ending Parkinson’s - Hudson Boulders, Latham NY

518-791-7362

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting movement but also causing non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances, mood changes, and cognitive challenges. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation, and while there is no cure, a variety of medications, therapies, and lifestyle approaches can help manage symptoms. Many trusted organizations provide regularly updated FAQ resources for patients and caregivers to aid understanding and day-to-day management

Myths around Parkinson’s Disease are common but can hinder early diagnosis and effective treatment. Understanding and sharing accurate information helps improve outcomes and reduce stigma for those affected. Continued education for patients, families, and providers is vital.

Everyone with PD has tremor

About 80% of patients experience tremor, but many do not, especially early on. Some have primarily stiffness or gait problems.

Tremor is common and recognizable but not universal. PD symptoms vary greatly among individuals.

Levodopa stops working after 5 years

Levodopa remains effective for decades; reduced duration of benefit is due to disease progression, not drug toxicity.

Early fears of "levodopa phobia" led patients to delay treatment unnecessarily. Dyskinesias and wearing off are related to disease progression, not levodopa itsel

PD is a death sentence

PD itself is not fatal; it is a progressive disease but with proper care, many live many years. Complications like falls or pneumonia can be serious.

Quality of care, exercise, and symptom management significantly affect longevity and quality of life[1], [2].

PD is always genetic

Only about 15% of cases report a family history; most cases are sporadic influenced by environmental toxins and aging.

While some genes have been identified, genetics account for a minority of PD cases[3].

PD only affects movement

PD causes many non-motor symptoms including sleep issues, anxiety, depression, cognitive changes, constipation, and fatigue. These often precede or are more disabling than movement symptoms.

Most focus is on motor signs like tremor or stiffness, but non-motor symptoms significantly affect quality of life and require treatment attention.

How is Parkinson’s diagnosed?

Diagnosis is clinical, based on history and physical examination by a neurologist, preferably a movement disorder specialist. Imaging and tests are primarily used to exclude other conditions.