Attending Coach Con 2025 with AJ was unforgettable, and after writing about my journey, I knew his voice deserved its own spotlight. Today’s blog gives you AJ’s unique perspective and the energy, skills, and inspiration he’s bringing home to our RSB VCLA community.

My Coach Con 2025 Experience as an RSB VCLA Coach

First and foremost, I want to thank everyone who helped organize such an amazing event. Coach Con 2025 was a powerful and meaningful experience for me. From the inspiring speakers to the hands-on training, I left with new ideas, fresh energy, and practical tools to bring back to our Rock Steady Boxing gyms in Calabasas, Camarillo, and Thousand Oaks.

This year’s Coach Con gave me a deeper connection to the Rock Steady Boxing mission and reminded me how lucky I am to be part of this global community.

Day One: Connecting With Coaches From Around the World

We kicked things off at the Hall of Champions, where we were greeted with food, drinks, and a chance to meet coaches and affiliates from across the world.

The environment was warm, friendly, and energizing. It was more than a social hour, this was the beginning of building relationships with people who truly understand what it means to support the Parkinson’s community through the RSB method.

I met new coaches, exchanged stories, and created connections I know will last long after the convention ended.

Day Two: Learning From Todd Vogt and Hands-On Training

Day two started strong with an inspiring story from Paralympian rower Todd Vogt. Hearing him speak about resilience and athletic identity while living with Parkinson’s was incredibly motivational. His message set the tone for the entire day.

After the keynote, we jumped into a series of hands-on sessions including:

• Focus Mitts
• Boxing Techniques
• Kickboxing Fundamentals

Each instructor brought tremendous energy and knowledge. I loved every moment of the hands-on classes and can’t wait to bring these advanced techniques back to our fighters in California.

These new skills will be useful across all of our programs from Group Classes to Private Training and even our Zoom Classes.

Day Three: Safety, Mindfulness, and Muay Thai Training

On day three, we shifted into safety and mental-health education, both essential parts of Rock Steady Boxing coaching.

One of the most valuable sessions for me was learning how to fall properly. These techniques aren’t just helpful; they’re lifesaving. I now feel more confident teaching our boxers how to protect themselves during everyday activities.

I also learned about the ACT Program, which focuses on:

• Mindfulness
• Boxer values
• Setting healthy goals
• Mental resilience

This training reminded me that coaching isn’t only physical, it’s emotional, mental, and deeply personal for each member.

Then came one of my favorite sessions: Muay Thai training for Parkinson’s. Learning how to integrate elbows, knees, and kicks into boxing combos was exciting, and I know our boxers will love adding these moves to our workouts.

What I’m Bringing Back to Rock Steady Boxing VC | LA

Coach Con 2025 was more than a learning event, it was community at its best. I gained knowledge, techniques, and inspiration that I’m eager to implement across our Los Angeles gyms.

Our Rock Steady Boxing community already feels like a family. After this event, I now have a new family too. A fighting family of coaches who share the same passion for helping people with Parkinson’s live stronger, fuller lives.

Thank you again for allowing me to be part of this year’s Coach Con. Until next time, it’s truly been a pleasure.