Objective: This 8-week interactive boxing program is designed for veterans in North Carolina, aiming to improve their physical health, mental well-being, and social connections. The program incorporates the principles of Trauma-Informed Care (TIC), which acknowledges and responds to the effects of all types of trauma.
Background and Justification
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North Carolina Veterans Context: North Carolina is home to over 650,000 veterans, with a significant number facing challenges such as PTSD, depression, and the difficult transition to civilian life. Physical activity like boxing has been shown to alleviate symptoms of PTSD and depression, improve physical health, and enhance overall quality of life.
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Therapeutic Model: Trauma-Informed Care recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery. It emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety for both providers and survivors, helping to rebuild a sense of control and empowerment.
Weekly Breakdown:
Week 1: Introduction to Boxing and TIC
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Objective: Introduce the veterans to the boxing program and the fundamentals of Trauma-Informed Care.
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Activities: Ice-breakers, introduction to basic boxing stance and movements, group discussion on expectations and personal goals.
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Therapeutic Focus: Building a safe environment, understanding trauma and its impact on life and health.
Week 2: Basic Skills Development
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Objective: Teach basic boxing skills focusing on form and technique.
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Activities: Jab, cross, and footwork drills. Introduction to heavy bags and speed bags.
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Therapeutic Focus: Stress reduction through physical activity, enhancing focus, and mindfulness.
Week 3: Building Physical Endurance
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Objective: Increase physical conditioning to improve overall fitness.
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Activities: Circuit training including boxing drills, bodyweight exercises, and endurance training.
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Therapeutic Focus: Linking physical health to mental health, fostering resilience.
Week 4: Advanced Boxing Techniques
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Objective: Introduce more complex boxing combinations and defensive maneuvers.
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Activities: Combination drills, defensive techniques like slipping and bobbing.
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Therapeutic Focus: Improving cognitive flexibility and reaction times, trauma coping strategies.
Week 5: Peer Coaching and Mentoring
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Objective: Foster peer relationships through coaching and mentoring opportunities within the group.
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Activities: Participants pair up to teach each other boxing techniques; guest veteran boxers share experiences.
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Therapeutic Focus: Building social connections, peer support, sharing personal coping strategies.
Week 6: Mindfulness and Mental Health
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Objective: Integrate mindfulness practices with physical training.
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Activities: Guided meditation, mindfulness boxing (focusing deeply on techniques and sensations).
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Therapeutic Focus: Developing mental clarity, emotional regulation, and stress management skills.
Week 7: Scenario-Based Training
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Objective: Apply boxing skills in various training scenarios to build confidence and adaptability.
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Activities: Controlled sparring sessions with peers, situational awareness drills.
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Therapeutic Focus: Enhancing self-efficacy, managing PTSD symptoms, reinforcing TIC principles.
Week 8: Program Review and Community Connection
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Objective: Review skills learned, discuss future personal and community engagement opportunities.
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Activities: Review session, community resource fair, planning for ongoing physical and mental health activities.
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Therapeutic Focus: Empowerment through continued engagement, community resource awareness.
Additional Components
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Veteran Resources and Support Workshops: Sessions on available local and national resources for veterans.
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Family Engagement Day: An event to engage family members in understanding the therapeutic aspects of boxing and support systems.
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Ongoing Support Groups: Establishing regular meet-ups for program alumni to maintain fitness and peer connections.
This program is structured to provide veterans with tools to manage their physical and mental health actively while fostering a supportive community that understands and respects their unique experiences.