(Caption: Good Shepherd Rehabilitation’s Rock Steady Boxing class poses for a recent photo with certified coaches in Allentown. Photo by: Good Shepherd Rehabilitation)
ALLENTOWN, Pa. (March 6, 2026) — This year marks a decade since Good Shepherd Rehabilitation first entered the ring and brought the Rock Steady Boxing program to the Lehigh Valley.
In 2016, Good Shepherd became the first organization in the area to offer the high-energy, non-contact exercise program for people with Parkinson’s disease, which is led by certified coaches.
The program helps people like Patricia “Patty” Wargo, a Rock Steady Boxing participant for 10 years. At one point in her life, Patty stepped away from attending classes due to injuries and immediately noticed a difference. She physically and mentally missed the class until she successfully returned to the program.
“I could see a real difference when I came back in needing to be here,” Patty said.
Slowing Parkinson’s Progression
Rock Steady Boxing classes use speed/heavy bags, jump ropes, gloves and focus mitts. No boxing experience is necessary. Good Shepherd invites people of all ages and varying degrees of Parkinson’s/fitness levels to participate.
Rock Steady Boxing classes have proven that anyone, at any level of Parkinson’s, can lessen their symptoms and lead a healthier and happier life. The exaggerated movements help members better manage their physical symptoms.
“The literature has shown that the more exercise you do, the higher intensity you do it at and the more frequent you do it has been proven to be the most neuroprotective and best for combatting Parkinsons disease,” said Good Shepherd physical therapist Nicole Weaknecht Jones, PT, DPT, a Rock Steady Boxing coach. “So, join as early and as quick as you can.”
Every Journey Is Different
Recognizing every participant’s journey with Parkinson’s disease is different, Jones split the program into two different levels to meet participants at their abilities. Today, Good Shepherd offers a slower paced class and a faster, higher-intensity class.
The program at Good Shepherd evolved in more ways than one. Physical therapy assistant Dori Billowitch, PTA, is Good Shepherd’s certified Head Coach of Rock Steady Boxing and has witnessed the growth firsthand. From adding new equipment to welcoming more participants through the doors each week, with every addition, the community has grown stronger.
“We will push you hard,” Billowitch said. “You are going to work hard, but that is the name of the game. Movement is exercise.”
Call 610-310-4528 or visit the Rock Steady Boxing page to learn more about Good Shepherd’s Rock Steady Boxing program.
Video: https://youtube.com/shorts/1jKHt6yxoks?si=GCpvLhK30KdFVf7X
Information provided to TVL by:
Mike Walbert
