The diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is one of uncertainty, and yet, you need to have a plan to move forward in your treatment and in your life. For Al Ridgell, Parkinson’s became part of his life in August of 2019, and he began his regimen of not only medications, but of exercise, specifically Rock Steady Boxing, a class which helps Parkinson’s patients to move easier and safely while improving their gait, posture, flexibility and resistance to injury in a non-contact boxing setting. However, this year, Al decided to take his exercise program to a new level and participate in the Fleet Feet Big Run, a timed 5K & 1-mile Fun Run, held on June 8, 2024.

Pushing Beyond Limitations

Al Ridgell, 61, native of Lillington, NC and now resident of Clemmons, NC for the past 11 years, worked and retired from the railroad, with his wife Cecelia by his side, as well as three grown children.  

“When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2019, I found out how important it is to continue to exercise, so I ride my Peloton bike 30 minutes, four times a week, in addition to doing 45 sit ups four times a week. I found out about the local Rock Steady Boxing classes, and I joined shortly after my diagnosis and attend four days a week. The class keeps me moving and has helped me with my walking, and I’ve learned how to prevent slips, trips and falls. I have also learned the best way to fall to prevent injury,” said Al.

Participating in a 5K is an undertaking for anyone, but especially someone with Parkinson’s, but the Fleet Feet Big Run was an opportunity for Al to challenge himself.

“I didn’t want Parkinson’s to define me, so I talked to my doctor about running and she said it would be fine. I really wanted to see if I could stay focused and do it. I was able to set the goal and complete it and I felt liberated when I finished the race!” Al commented. 

Rock Steady Boxing helped Al be able to overcome his toughest opponent yet in life…Parkinson’s.

Rock Steady Boxing Making a Difference in Lives

Rock Steady Boxing is a program solely dedicated to people with Parkinson’s Disease. Locally, Kelly Lewis, formerly of C3 Fitness in Clemmons, NC, started the affiliate in 2018, in honor of her dad, who had been diagnosed with the disease. Although he wasn’t able to attend her classes due to living in another part of the state, Kelly’s passion to help others struggling with the disease was her motivation.

When Kelly moved away, Michelle Toborg, a physical therapist, assumed the affiliate and coaches the Rock Steady participants, too, along with two other head coaches, one assistant coach and volunteers.

“Even though as a physical therapist I have primarily worked in orthopedics, neurology has always been a passion of mine, as well as fitness for all who are willing to participate. My first introduction to Rock Steady Boxing was from an ortho patient of mine who also had Parkinson’s. He spent his summer in Los Angeles and, when he returned to Winston-Salem, he shared that he had been part of a Rock Steady Boxing class and wanted to know if boxing could be incorporated in his therapy. I said, of course, why not! The one treatment protocol for Parkinson’s that we know helps to slow its progression is engaging in 150 minutes per week of moderate to vigorous exercise. Boxers are more likely to attend and push themselves in a structured class environment with specific exercises targeting cardio, balance, range of motion, strength and agility,” stated Michelle. 

Rock Steady Boxing meets locally at 690 Jonestown Road, Winston-Salem, NC, on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, with different classes to address the participants’ level of mobility. 

With his goal of a 5K checked off, Al plans to continue with his Rock Steady Boxing classes and perhaps take on another activity.

“I may try golf next. I know I can focus on something and accomplish it with the 5K even with Parkinson’s,” Al said.

For more information on Rock Steady Boxing, visit rocksteadyboxing.org for information on affiliates near you. A visit to a class is usually suggested to see if it will be a good fit in your routine. Michelle Toborg can be reached for more information at 336.416.9976.