Minges Wellness Center at UNC Health Lenoir is excited to announce the launch of Punching Through Parkinson’s, a non-contact unique boxing program designed specifically for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. This program aims to improve physical health, strength, balance, and overall quality of life through exercise tailored to the needs of Parkinson’s patients.

Parkinson’s disease can cause motor and non-motor symptoms that affect movement, coordination, and daily life. According to Parkinson Association of the Carolinas, nearly one million people are living with Parkinson’s throughout America and up to 10 million people worldwide. Men are one and a half times more likely to have Parkinson’s than women. 

Research has shown that regular exercise, including boxing, can significantly reduce symptoms and improve overall well-being. Studies have shown that activities like boxing can help Parkinson’s patients improve motor function and coordination, enhance cognitive abilities and mental clarity, and boost overall energy and mood. The high-intensity nature of boxing training, combined with its focus on mental sharpness and physical movement, is ideal for combating the physical challenges of Parkinson's.

The program will be led by certified trainers within Minges Wellness Center who have experience in fitness and working with individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Each session will be modified to suit different fitness levels, ensuring every participant can engage safely and comfortably. 

Punching Through Parkinson’s will require physician clearance and registration. The class is an at-cost program that starts at $40 per month. Classes will be around one hour long with 15 minutes of set-up and break-down at the beginning and end of class. For more information or to register for Punching Through Parkinson’s, contact Minges Wellness Center at 252-522-7944. 

About Minges Wellness Center

The Minges Wellness Center has 50 pieces of stationary exercise equipment, an average of 24 beginner’s group exercise classes weekly, and a 236-foot indoor walking track. Our program partners with Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Active & Fit, and Renew Active benefits for eligible community members. 

About UNC Health Lenoir

UNC Health Lenoir, licensed for 199 beds, is a nonprofit hospital serving the Lenoir County area with acute, outpatient, and community health services. The hospital has a 118-year history of providing excellent care to the community. In addition to general medical, surgical, and obstetrical and gynecological care, UNC Lenoir offers specialized services including interventional cardiology, pulmonology, oncology, radiology, and urology. Surgical specialties include general surgery, vascular, orthopedic, and bariatrics. UNC Health Lenoir affiliated with the UNC Health Care System in 2017. For more information or to find a physician, visit unclenoir.org.