Scottish Care Home Boxing Initiative Is Knock Out Success
A visit to Spynie Care Home by Elgin Amateur Boxing Club to introduce the benefits of ‘neuroboxing’ was a knockout success for residents.
Neuroboxing, a non-contact form of boxing, is designed to help individuals with neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. It focuses on improving strength, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive function, while also triggering the release of dopamine, a brain chemical often reduced in people with neurological issues.
This visit was the brainchild of Jason Grant, 54, whose business JG Building Contractors, provides maintenance services at the care home. Jason has been a dedicated member of the boxing club since he was seven and also teaches two inclusive classes at the club, welcoming participants of all ages, genders, and abilities.
Jason was inspired to bring neuroboxing to Spynie Care Home after seeing its positive impact on care home residents in social media videos. After chatting to the registered manager Maggie Scott and deputy manager Liz Jamieson, Jason arranged for himself and some of the Club’s coaches, including 82-year-old international judging and referee Donald Campbell, to run a session with residents.
“After seeing the incredible benefits of neuroboxing online, I knew it was something that could be really enjoyable for the residents at Spynie, some of who I know from my work there. Maggie and Liz jumped at the opportunity, and we all had a great couple of hours!
“It was really fun for everyone involved and it was good to see how they progressed during the session. The Elgin Amateur Boxing Club is a community club and we love getting out and showing people that boxing is an accessible sport and a great way to keep fit. I run all ages, all genders, all ability classes to introduce people to it and stay healthy – this is just another extension of that ethos!”
Maggie Scott, the manager of Spynie Care Home, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative: “We are always looking for new ways to enhance the wellbeing of our residents with engaging activities. Neuroboxing was really fun and we were lucky to have such experienced boxers in to engage with residents. It was great to see smiles on their faces and getting right into it – I think we had a few Rocky Balboas!
One of the residents, Jimmy Gilbert, shared his experience: “I never thought I’d be boxing at my age, but it was fantastic! The exercises were challenging but enjoyable, and I felt a real sense of accomplishment.”
