When 72-year-old Kerry was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2022, she immediately began searching for therapies that could help her stay strong and independent. “I wanted to do everything I could to delay the progression," she says.
A friend who works out at HNH Fitness told Kerry about a unique boxing program designed specifically for people managing Parkinson's. Intrigued, she decided to visit–and what she found changed her life.
At HNH Fitness, Kerry met boxing trainer Ron O'Neill, who explained how boxing can help improve balance, posture, stamina, and coordination–all areas impacted by Parkinson's. “What's special about this program is that it's completely individualized," Kerry explains. “Ron tailors every session to my specific needs. No two workouts are the same."
During their 45-minute one-on-one sessions, Kerry works on balance drills, posture exercises, and strength training using a variety of boxing equipment. Her hands are wrapped for support, and she wears her own gloves to practice different skills. The sessions always end with sparring combinations against Ron's gloved hands.
“It's not just about throwing punches–it's about thinking and reacting," Kerry says. “There's a whole science to it." She's become enthralled by the sport and references the book Sweet Science by Pierce Egan, when she discusses the cognitive benefits that boxing brings by stimulating dopamine production.
Today, Kerry trains six times a week: three days with Ron and three days on her own. Thanks to gifts from her children, Kerry even created a small boxing gym at home so she can keep up with her workouts anytime.
The results have been remarkable. “Before, I used to lose my balance while gardening, or get exhausted after long walks," she says. “Now, I'm steady, and I can keep going without feeling tired.'"
Kerry is grateful for the new strength and confidence she's found through boxing. "It's given me a tremendous boost," she says. “And the community at HNH Fitness has been wonderful. It's inspiring to see how everyone supports one another, whether they have Parkinson's or not."
Her doctor is thrilled with her progress, and Kerry encourages others not to be afraid to step into the ring–Parkinson's diagnosis or not.
