WHY CHOOSE
TOVO TIME BOXING
TOVO TIME BOXING
It might seem counterintuitive to recommend a sport known for head impacts to people dealing with a health or neurological condition, but non-contact boxing has become one of the most effective therapies for managing conditions even as complicated as Parkinson’s Disease (PD).
The magic isn’t in the “fight,” but in the specific type of movement boxing requires. Here is why it works:
1. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
As we age or suffer conditions like PD our movements slow down (bradykinesia). Boxing is naturally “forced intense exercise.” Studies suggest that high-intensity training can be neuroprotective, potentially slowing the progression of symptoms by increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports neuron health.
2. Neuroplasticity and “Dual-Tasking”
Boxing isn’t just swinging your arms; it’s a mental puzzle. A boxer must:
- Remember complex punch combinations (Memory).
- Footwork to maintain distance (Spatial awareness).
- React to a trainer’s cues (Processing speed).This “dual-tasking” forces the brain to create new neural pathways, helping to bypass some of the motor circuit issues caused by aging and neurological conditions.
3. Balance and Core Stability
One of the biggest risks as we age is falling. Boxing requires a wide, staggered stance and constant weight shifting.
- Rotational Movement: Many PD symptoms cause “rigidity” in the torso. The twisting motion of throwing a hook or cross helps maintain spinal flexibility.
- Anticipatory Postural Adjustment: Moving to hit a bag trains the body to stabilize itself before and after a movement.
4. Hand-Eye Coordination
PD can interfere with the connection between what you see and how you move. The “speed bag” or “double-end bag” requires rhythmic, timed hits that sharpen the visual-motor loop, helping to reduce tremors and improve fine motor skills.
Maria Tovo and Dr. Michael Veerman
Maria is a nurse and Dr. Mike is a chiropractor. Both have a passion for helping people and teaching them how to live a longer healthier life. Maria and Mike used to have offices next to each other in Channahon but both had to move out from there. Dr. Mike has locations in Chicago and New Lenox.
Maria is moving to North Carolina to be closer to her son. Dr. Mike agreed to take the class over as one of his patients who is in the class was upset there may be noone to take it over. It is a class that absolutely helps her and keeps her going. Its more than just a class. It’s a team and support system. Makes them feel confident and emporered. As we get older the struggles are real. This is just one class that eases those struggles by improving the mental and neurological functions.
If you have questions, please just call the office. See if Tovo Time Boxing is right for you.
Cost, Location, and Class Schedule
Classes will cost $100 a month for up to 8 classes.
Fitness Premier | 540 W North St, Manhattan, IL 60442
18154186100
Tuesdays and Thursdays 11am – 12pm
