Warrington boxing gym to become first UK training camp for Parkinson's
A boxing gym is set to become the first accredited Parkinson's non-contact boxing training camp in the UK.
Rock Steady Boxing Widnes and Warrington will launch this unique programme in February 2025.
The training camp will feature a 12-hour online course and a two-day practical course, to be held at Rock Steady Boxing Warrington in Crown Street.
Instructors will be charged £686.66 plus VAT to partake in these courses.
The curriculum has been specifically designed by experienced trainers to educate physios, boxing coaches, and instructors on how to best assist the Parkinson’s community.
The practical sessions are scheduled for February 1 and February 2.
To participate, trainees must hold qualifications such as a PT Level 3, Level 2 or Level 3 boxing coach certificate awarded by the EBBA, a physiotherapist registration with HCPC or AHPs, or be a licensed rehabilitation professional.
Rock Steady Boxing, which has bases in Widnes and Warrington, aims to train coaches and instructors to conduct more non-contact boxing classes targeted at people living with Parkinson's in the surrounding areas.
Non-contact boxing is known to offer high-intensity workouts and can be beneficial for those with long-term health conditions like Parkinson's.
It helps alleviate many motor symptoms associated with the condition and also significantly boosts mental wellbeing.
All necessary equipment for the two-day coaching session will be provided by Rock Steady Boxing.
Michelle Fox, company secretary at Rock Steady Boxing Widnes and Warrington, said: "We are delighted to be announced as the first accredited UK training camp for coaches and instructors who are interested in delivering non-contact boxing for people with Parkinson’s.
"Since we opened our new Warrington boxing gym in 2024, we have had a fantastic response, not only from the local Parkinson’s community but also from coaches who want to get involved.
"Becoming the first accredited UK training camp for Rock Steady Boxing is a brilliant feeling, and we’re really looking forward to getting started and training more coaches to become Rock Steady Boxing instructors."