WeHa To Offer Boxing Class For Seniors With Parkinson's

WEST HARTFORD, CT — West Hartford's senior centers will soon offer a unique program aimed for those battling Parkinson's disease, but it recently needed a stamp of approval by the town.

The West Hartford Town Council Tuesday, Sept. 24, unanimously approved appropriating grant dollars from the American Parkinson Disease Association (Connecticut chapter) to allow West Hartford's senior center to offer the program.

Called "Rock Steady," the innovative exercise classes will be for those afflicted with the neurological disorder.

But, according to West Hartford Town Manager Rick Ledwith, the program utilizes a rather unique methodology — traditional boxing training is part of the class, with the class being "non-contact."

One of the greatest boxers of all time, the late Muhammed Ali, suffered from Parkinson's for decades prior to his death in 2016.

The grant, officials said, will make it so the class will come at no charge.

"The program will be offered at no charge to participants," Ledwith said.

According to the resolution approved by council members, the senior center applied for and received the grant — totally $2,400.

Before classes could start, however, some minor administrative council work was required, hence the council's vote, which came quickly and with no discussion.

West Hartford operates two senior centers in town, but the appropriation approved was for the Elmwood Senior Center on 1106 New Britain Ave., West Hartford.

The town also operates the Bishops Corner Senior Center on 15 Starkel Road, West Hartford.

For the minutes of the Sept. 24 West Hartford Town Council as well as resolution documents meeting, click on this link.

For more information on West Hartford's senior centers, click on this link.