I promised a while ago that I would talk about all the things I do to keep fit and to slow down the progression of Parkinson's Disease (PD). So here it goes. I’ll list each activity and spend time on each one in separate articles:

●      Boxing

●      Personal Training

●      Running

●      Equestrian Riding

Boxing has become a passion of mine, and I’d like to back up a bit to explain how I came to this passion.

When I was diagnosed in 2013, my neurologist didn’t tell me to exercise. In fact, he didn’t tell me much of anything. After having my pity party for a couple of days, I threw myself into discovering everything I could about PD. I kept coming across articles about the benefits of exercise, particularly boxing.

I searched for a boxing studio in Ottawa, but there wasn’t one available. I emailed every Rock Steady business nearby to see if they had plans to open one here. They said yes! While we didn’t end up with them, Boxing 4 Health has been amazing. It has helped me get in the best shape I’ve ever been in, and anecdotally, my symptoms are not advancing very fast.

I’ve met and made many friends through boxing, although I lost one last year. Boxing gives me the opportunity to let it all out. That bag doesn’t stand a chance!

I don’t remember how long I have been a member, but I’m so glad I am one. I go four times a week, and I wish I could go more often. As far as exercise goes, this is so fun that you don’t even feel like you’re exercising.

Next time, I’ll focus on my personal trainers. They’re awesome!

Dianne Bramble is a Registered Nurse in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. She left nursing and got her certification in Health Coaching, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Personal Training. Dianne’s focus is on people with chronic conditions like Parkinson’s. She’s 55, married with two kids, a dog, and a horse. She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in September 2013. Her blogs will focus on mental and physical health.