3 ; 1 ; in Month : January (2021) Article No : sphrj-v3-1011
Sangarapillai K, Norman BM and Almeida QJ

Abstract

Boxing is one of the most ‘media-popular’ promoted exercise interventions for individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD), yet there is very little scientific validation of its effects on brain function. With a disproportionate focus on boxing in the media, the accelerated promotion of programs internationally has raised concerns regarding the effectiveness and the costs of these programs. Thus, our study evaluated the effectiveness of the delivery of boxing programs in Canada using data gathered from telephone-interviews. Boxing programs were searched for using Google (the most popular search engine) and telephone-interviews were conducted guided by a questionnaire developed by the principal investigator. Programs (n=46) were identified and divided into Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) (affiliates share similarities in the delivery of exercise) and private boxing programs (PRV). Data was analyzed using SPSS, Chi-square tests and descriptive statistics were conducted. It was found that boxing programs did not effectively monitor symptom improvement using the appropriate tools (UPDRS-III) and measures. However, individuals are charged a participation fee. Based on the findings, this paper made policy recommendations to promote improved delivery of boxing programs for PD in Canada. These recommendations are essential for determining whether boxing programs for PD are a valid exercise therapy.

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