Parkinson's Fighters United

Non contact boxing classes available in Brisbane, Queensland

About PFU

In 2017, Madonna Brady had a question. She wondered if there were any non contact boxing classes available in Brisbane, Queensland designed specifically for people with Parkinson's Disease.
There weren't.

Upcoming Events

Parkinson's Exercise Group / Boxing Kelvin Grove YMCA

Every Monday Time: 1 to 1:45pm

Every Wednesday Time: 11 to 11:45am
(unless notified otherwise)

Trainer: Deb Meade

What our Parkinson's Fighters say

  • In December 2018, to my total shock and disbelief I found myself in hospital for two weeks and, at age 59 was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. My background is in health; I was an ICU nurse for 15 years and recovery nurse for 20 years. Having only worked in surgical areas, I had no exposure to patients with Parkinson’s nor did I know anyone with PD. I found myself in uncharted waters. Although it is early days, I am utterly convinced already that boxing is worthwhile – I feel stronger, fitter, healthier and mentally relaxed. PFU is such a diverse and positive group of people who understand what it’s like being diagnosed with PD. I have found everyone to be incredibly supportive, understanding and welcoming. The trainers are also very knowledgeable and are able to tailor each boxing session to individual needs and abilities. ​ There is a growing body of evidence to support the many benefits of non-contact boxing, including improvements in strength and motor symptoms. I firmly believe that this is true.
    Di Hilton
    PFU Fighter | PCYC Lang Park
  • It has been really satisfying as a trainer to witness the huge improvements the group as a whole have achieved over the past year. I love seeing the physical benefits they gain from the class, but also the social benefits and emotional support as a result of interacting with others who are going through the same thing. The group has developed a real ‘community feel’. They help, encourage and support each other and fight Parkinson’s Disease as a united team. I have taught them about boxing and exercise, while they have taught me a lot about Parkinson’s Disease and the resilience of the human spirit. They place their trust in me and are always willing to give anything a go. ​ Working with this group of Parkos and their carers is one of the highlights of my week, and most importantly we always have a laugh and have FUN! I also gain much satisfaction from the knowledge that in some small way I am contributing towards improving the quality of life of those living with Parkinson’s Disease.
    Deb Mead
    PFU Fighter
  • It took me until I was 70 to discover the skills involved with, and the multiple benefits of boxing. This heart pumping exercise can help lower blood pressure, increase muscle tone, boost endurance, add to core stability, engage peripheral vision, improve hand eye coordination and fine motor skills and relieve stress. This means I can walk longer, balance better, climb more stairs, get out of a chair or car with a little less effort, pick up a pen (or pill!) and most importantly, play with my grandchildren with greater ease and for longer. After a PFU session I walk with a normal gait - no limp or flop foot. It does not last...but it is a wonderful feeling while it does! But best of all boxing is fun! ​ There is a growing body of evidence to support the many benefits of non-contact boxing, including improvements in strength and motor symptoms. I firmly believe that this is true.
    Bettye Allen
    PFU Fighter
  • I am 72 years of age and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in early 2013 while I was working in Abu Dhabi. On my return to Australia in late 2015, I retired and settled in Brisbane. For the past two years, I have attended the boxing classes facilitated by Parkinson's Fighters United (PFU) at the PCYC Lang Park. These classes have been most effective in improving and maintaining my general fitness level and my sense of well-being. Most particularly, I have recently had problems with my posture arising from Parkinson’s. The increase in core, upper spinal and shoulder strength that have resulted from my participation in the boxing sessions have certainly improved my posture. I have also benefitted from the social interaction with others in this supportive community. They have provided a source of information and just being around other people fighting the disease through exercise, is a pleasure and a privilege. ​ There is a growing body of evidence to support the many benefits of non-contact boxing, including improvements in strength and motor symptoms. I firmly believe that this is true.
    John Loy
    PFU Fight

PFU Merch

We are planning a run of shirts to be printed. Shirts will have the PFU logo on the front.
Please indicate you preferences if you would like to get one and we will confirm numbers / prices before finalising.

Please Note: The prices are indication only, and no commitment at this stage.

Name
Email
Phone
Style Preferred
T Shirt - Mens
T Shirt - Ladies
Polo Shirt - Mens
Polo Shirt - Ladies
Colour preference
White
Black
Grey
Blue
Green
Expression of interest - pre order summary
Total
$ 0.00

If We Need It, Others Do Too!