Dr. Cotton shared Rock Steady’s inspiring origin story, which began with founder Scott Newman, a former prosecutor in Indianapolis who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s at age 39. A friend encouraged Scott to try boxing as a way to manage his symptoms, and the results were remarkable. Scott’s improvement laid the foundation for what would become the Rock Steady Boxing curriculum, based on high-intensity interval training designed specifically for people with Parkinson’s. Over the years, RSB has expanded from a single gym in Indianapolis to a global community.
One of the most inspiring aspects of Rock Steady Boxing is the sense of community and camaraderie among participants. Dr. Cotton described it as a “support group with gloves on,” where people with Parkinson’s can connect, share challenges, and find encouragement in a safe, supportive environment. This community-based approach not only addresses the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s but also tackles non-motor symptoms like anxiety and depression, fostering a holistic improvement in quality of life.
At Cadense, we believe in creating solutions that improve mobility and independence. Dr. Cotton shared his insights on how Cadense’s adaptive footwear fits into the Rock Steady ecosystem. For people with Parkinson’s who struggle with freezing and gait issues, our shoes provide added stability and ease of movement.
As Dr. Cotton mentioned, the shoes offer a peace of mind to individuals who might get “stuck” in tight spaces. This added confidence can make a big difference, allowing people to stay active without fear of falling.
Since its founding, Rock Steady Boxing has expanded to over 800 locations across the U.S. and in 14 countries. Dr. Cotton explained that RSB is focused on building a consistent, evidence-based curriculum, supported by research from top institutions like the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. This research is helping Rock Steady ensure that all its programs deliver the best results for people with Parkinson’s, no matter where they train.
Shirley Ryan Ability Lab is currently conducting a clinical trial on Cadense Adaptive Shoes to assess their impact on mobility post-stroke. For more information on our research initiatives, you can explore our Research & Resources section.
With a clear mission and a rapidly growing network, Rock Steady Boxing is leading the way in Parkinson’s care, helping individuals fight back against a progressive condition that often feels limiting.
For those interested in joining or supporting Rock Steady Boxing, you can find locations on their website’s Find a Location feature. If you’re a healthcare professional, Rock Steady also offers certification programs for both group and one-on-one clinical training, enabling you to bring this transformative program to more people in need.
To learn more about Rock Steady Boxing, visit their website at rocksteadyboxing.org, and if you’re looking for adaptive footwear designed to support mobility, check out our offerings at cadense.com.
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