Unleash Your Inner Champion

June 1, 2024 | Brian Parman, Director, The Point & Pavilion

The Olympics have always held a special place in my heart, even for someone like me who wouldn’t call themself a die-hard sports fan. Working the Atlanta Games in 1996 was an experience unlike any other. It was a logistical marathon that pushed me to my limits, but it also instilled in me the confidence to chase my dreams.

One memory that forever cements itself in my mind is the opening ceremony. The vibrant tapestry of cultures, the synchronized steps of thousands of athletes, and the collective anticipation for the Games to begin – it was pure magic. That year, legendary Muhammad Ali, a beacon of strength and resilience, was chosen to lite the Olympic cauldron. It wasn’t just a flame; it was a symbol of hope, perseverance, and the unwavering human spirit. Ali, a fighter who battled both in the ring and outside it, stood tall in that moment living with Parkinson’s, a testament to the power of pushing your limits and achieving the seemingly impossible.

That spirit, my friends, is exactly what we want to bring to you today at CC Young. You might think that your competitive days are behind you, but the truth is, the will to “go for gold” never truly retires. Inspired by that Olympic spirit, we’re launching the “Go for the Gold!” Fit For Life Challenge here at CC Young. This program is all about flipping the script on aging and embracing a holistic approach to wellness – mind, body, and spirit.

Boxing may seem like a young person’s sport, but a modified version, tailored for seniors, offers a multitude of benefits. We’ve seen great success with the implementation of Rock, Steady Boxing on our campus for seniors living with Parkinson’s and one of our newest classes JAB (Jamming Adult Boxing) specifically designed for seniors who do not have Parkinson’s.

Both improve hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and cardiovascular health. More importantly, they foster a sense of community, camaraderie, and mental agility. Just like Muhammad Ali, you can train your mind and body to achieve new feats.

Think about it. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try boxing but never dared. Perhaps you excelled at a different sport in your youth and yearn to recapture that competitive fire. Stepping into the ring, even a non-traditional one, is about so much more than punches and footwork. It’s about testing your boundaries, defying expectations, and proving to yourself that you’re capable of anything you set your mind to.

Now, you might be thinking, “Boxing? At my age?” But hear me out. JAB (Jamming Adult Boxing) isn’t about stepping into the ring with a fierce competitor. It’s a fun, high-impact workout for seniors (who do not have Parkinsons) that can be tailored to any fitness level.

Think of it as a chance to unleash your inner champion. JAB can help you:

• Become a Stronger: More Balanced You: Boxing works your entire body, from core to extremities, improving strength and balance. Even seated exercises provide a great workout!
• Sharpen Your Skills: Reaching, listening, and reacting all contribute to better hand-eye coordination, which comes in handy for everyday activities.
• Move with Confidence: Shadowboxing offers a fantastic cardiovascular workout without the impact, perfect for those with joint concerns. Strengthening those muscles can reduce pain and discomfort, giving you the confidence to move with ease.

Just like Muhammad Ali, who defied expectations and inspired millions, RSB or JAB can help you discover the “gold” within yourself.

As the world comes together this summer for the Paris Olympic Games we want to issue a challenge to EVERYONE on this campus to GET MOVING! Collectively our goal is to track our steps and GO FOR THE GOLD walking our way in total group mileage equal to the miles from Dallas, Texas, to Paris, France. Are you in? More to come on just how we’ll accomplish this. 

Challenge yourself, have fun, and experience the empowering benefits of a new activity. It’s never too late to light your own flame and discover the champion you are!

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