Beyond Exercise: Using Boxing as a Therapeutic Tool for Mental Health, Aging, and Neurological Conditions

2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions

October 17–19, 2026 | Brea, CA

The following is the Session Descriptions for the 2026 ATRA Annual Conference in Brea, CA. All sessions, times, and presenter information have been confirmed, though final adjustments may occur due to unforeseen circumstances onsite.

For a visual Calendar view, please visit: Schedule at a Glance

For information on our On Demand Conference offerings, please visit: ATRA SoCal On Demand

Continuing Education (CEUs):
NCTRC pre-approval is pending fr all sessions for CEUs.

Once the program is pre-approved; For questions related to specialty certification areas, please refer to the PDF version of the program for designation icons and CEU-eligible sessions.

Code of Conduct:
All attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and guests are expected to uphold the ATRA Conference Code of Conduct.
To review the Code, view it here.

Note on Non-ATRA Activities:

Please note that any events or activities not listed in the official ATRA SoCal program are independently organized and not affiliated or sponsored by ATRA. ATRA is not responsible for independently coordinated events, meetups or activities not articulated in this program. Individuals interested in non-ATRA sponsored activities should contact their respective organizations directly for details.

Session Description

Recreational therapy plays a critical role in restoring independence, confidence, and quality of life—yet many programs struggle with engagement, accessibility, and long-term adherence. This session introduces non-contact boxing as an evidence-informed, adaptable intervention that improves strength, balance, coordination, and cognitive function across diverse populations, including older adults and individuals living with neurological conditions. Drawing on clinical experience in healthcare and over 25 years in performance training, this session demonstrates how boxing can be safely modified for therapeutic settings to increase participation, build confidence, and create meaningful functional outcomes. Attendees will learn how to implement simple, scalable boxing-based strategies that enhance both physical and mental health while fostering connection, empowerment, and long-term engagement.

Learning Outcomes

Identify at least three therapeutic benefits of non-contact boxing for physical, cognitive, and emotional health. Demonstrate two adaptable boxing-based movements suitable for diverse ability levels and clinical populations. Develop one strategy to integrate boxing or movement-based interventions into recreational therapy programming.

Practice Area: Select ALL that Apply

Target Audience

Primary Presenter

Lita Mae Button, Punch Positive

Biographical Information

Lita Mae Button is a Registered Nurse, boxing coach, and international speaker specializing in movement-based interventions for aging populations and individuals living with neurological conditions. With over 25 years in fitness and a clinical background in geriatric mental health, she uses non-contact boxing to improve strength, balance, cognitive function, and confidence in a safe, accessible way. As the founder of the Punch Positive™ movement, Lita blends science, lived experience, and engaging delivery to help individuals move from fragile to fierce—physically and mentally. Her work focuses on creating sustainable, community-driven programs that improve health outcomes and quality of life.

ATRA SoCal : 2026 Session Description

October 17–19, 2026

The Embassy Suites, Brea, California

2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions