Parkinson's: Toronto man uses boxing and strength routine to manage symptoms

A Toronto man diagnosed with Parkinson's 12 years ago joined a StrikeBack boxing and strength program in Etobicoke that he says eases physical, cognitive and social symptoms; clinicians and recent Canadian research emphasize starting exercise early and staying consistent.

A Toronto man diagnosed with Parkinson's 12 years ago now takes part in a specialized boxing and strength program in Etobicoke. The program, called StrikeBack, began in January at Kingsway Boxing Club. Participants and the program lead report physical, cognitive and social benefits from regular sessions. Clinicians and recent Canadian research emphasize early intervention and consistent exercise alongside medical care. Key details: - The participant, Mike Loghrin, has been boxing for about a decade and attends the program twice weekly. - StrikeBack Boxing and Strength combines supervised strength and conditioning work with non-contact boxing elements and is led by Jennifer Huggins with support from Patricia Else and Rob Gorican. - Dr. Eliza Freitas, a neurologist at Baycrest Hospital, is quoted saying consistency in exercise matters long term and that exercise should begin soon after diagnosis. - Parkinson's Canada estimates more than 110,000 Canadians are living with Parkinson's, a figure expected to rise by 2034. Summary: The program provides supervised strength, conditioning and non-contact boxing that participants say helps with symptoms and reduces isolation, reflecting expert comments about the role of regular exercise alongside medical care. Undetermined at this time.