Keith's Story
Keith reached out to Mike early February of this year, to inquire about the MP
Fitness rehabilitative training program. Keith was determined he would not let his recent
Parkinson’s diagnosis get him down. Parkinson’s disease is neurodegenerative disorder
that affects movement. And their training would focus on motor related symptoms:
tremors, bradykinesia, retropulsion, shuffled gait, and balance deficits. One intervention
in particular, Keith has enjoyed, is boxing.
Boxing has been therapeutic for Keith. Learning the striking techniques has
improved his neuromuscular control and coordination; and, has been a useful tool in
keeping the tremors at bay. They have also incorporated slips, head movement,
pivoting, and footwork which have been tremendous for his balance. Keith will be the
first to tell you he loves the sound of a crisp punch connecting perfectly with the pad. It
has been exciting and motivates him to continue to fight back against Parkinson’s.
About Parkinson's
No one knows what causes this disease. But we do know boxing is successful at
treating symptoms of Parkinson’s. When a sequence is called out, Mike positions the
mitts, and Keith must execute it accordingly. This reeducates his muscles in a way so
they are able to receive impulses from his brain. It also improves his ability to discern
balance disruptions and keep him safe.
Another common symptom of Parkinson’s is retropulsion. This is when a person
is unable to shift his or her weight forward sufficiently. Upon standing, he or she often
falls backwards. If you know someone who does this, a great cue you can provide to
him or her is “nose over toes.” Encourage him or her to lean forward all the way when
transferring from a seated to standing position — thus positioning the nose over the
toes. Also encourage him or her to push up from the seated surface with his or her
hands. Do not have he or she pull up from a walker or any other assisted device.
About the Author
Michael Ponziani started MP Fitness in 2020 during the pandemic and the
Marion Fitness Club became his base of operations. Michael started working out about
15 years ago. He loved the feeling of the pump and the rush of endorphins that came
with it. While he enjoyed the benefits to his mental and physical health from working out,
he saw an opportunity to help others as well. So in 2016 he became a certified Personal
Trainer, and in 2018 he graduated from North Central State college with an associate
degree in applied science and a license from the state of Ohio to practice physical
therapy.
Please visit ponzifit.com for more rehabilitation tips.
Mike is a wonderful trainer. He has helped me after my hip replacement, rotator cuff surgery and ongoing now for recent back surgery. He's very attentive to how far I can go but always listens to my concerns. He does push me but never beyond my limits. He always conducts himself in a very professional manner! Thanks Mike for being such an inspiration to everyone around you!