Parkinson’s Karate Club

About the Parkinson’s Karate Club

When I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s my doctor said the best way to hold it at bay was through rigorous exercise. I’ve been participating in the YMCA’s Pedaling for Parkinsons and the Rock Steady Boxing program, which is held locally at Cappy’s Gym in Seattle. Both programs are excellent and were obviously designed by people who understand the physical conditioning needs of people with Parkinsons.

What struck me was how similar the Rock Steady program is to karate. Forty years ago, I was a serious student of karate. I worked my way up to Black Belt and ultimately managed a branch Dojo for the Washington Karate Association. But things change. I got married, went back to my original career and moved away.

After all these years I still practice on my own. The beauty of karate is that once you learn the basics you can practice solo, at home or in a park. A spin room or boxing gym is not necessary. As with all exercise programs working out with others is so much better than solo. There is a lot to be said for energy of working out in a group. I never would have believed I could spin for an hour.

The Parkinsons Karate Club is an informal group that uses the basics of karate as a self-defense against Parkinsons. The focus is on conditioning, breathing, footwork, balance, blocking and punching. Self-defense is an added benefit. There is no contact and little to no kicking like you see in the movies. In self-defense, as in our daily lives living with Parkinsons, balance is too precious to risk.

The Shoreline YMCA, where I am a member and take spin classes, provides a private exercise room. Like their Pedaling for Parkinsons program, participants do not need to be members of the Y.

Classes involve stretching and conditioning that is performed on the floor. Participants should be able to get up and down from the floor with little to no assistance.

If you would like to participate, contact me.

Allen Alston (206) 327-2311
alston12@comcast.net