Twins find throwing punches cuts stress, builds strength

Janice Sakihama and Judy Fukunaga, 68-year-old twin sisters, love boxing.

As in lacing up the gloves and going to work on a bag.

"Being raised in Asian culture, you have to be nice to people even if someone is stepping on your toes. Boxing helps release some of that," Fuku­naga said.

The two women said they feel like teenagers again and have gained stamina and confidence through rigorous training sessions that include boxing, squats, pushups, heavy ropes and more at Fitness Unlimited in Hono­­­lulu.

"As you get older, you feel vulnerable," said Saki­hama, who lives in Aiea. "It’s really boosted my confidence. Our trainer, Jon Shi­mo­kawa, takes us seriously. Our age doesn’t matter; he puts us through the mill."

Shimokawa said the women "move around and act like 40-year-olds. That’s why their workouts are tough. I feel anyone can do anything if they put their minds to it, including seniors."

After surgery in 2006 for placement of a coronary angio­plasty stent, Saki­hama said she was having difficulty breathing. "I had tightness in my chest all of the time," she said. "Since I started working out, I can breathe easier. I’m more comfortable."

The twins checked out the training sessions upon the recommendation of a friend.

"She was telling me about her workouts, and it sounded challenging. I thought I’d like to try it," Saki­hama said. "Growing up, we were not active in sports or exercise."

Fukunaga, a Kaneohe resident, decided to be an observer during the first session but joined in the next time around.

Before starting their workout sessions about a year ago, the twins’ typical exercise routine included a simple walk on a treadmill. They both agreed that wasn’t enough, and now they train at the gym weekly and on their own the other days, except for one rest day during the week. They say they have become more toned and have developed more stamina.

At home, Fukunaga runs and uses her boxing gloves on a punching bag she recently purchased.

"My everyday living is enhanced. I hope more people our age will start exercising," she said, noting that her posture has improved, she can carry more weight and performing physical tasks is no longer a struggle.

"I feel safe climbing and can do more housework," she said.

As owner of Salon Essentials, Saki­hama deals with high levels of stress running a business.

"Stress can cause a lot of health problems," she said. Like Fuku­naga, Saki­hama finds that boxing and other exercises help release tension. Her typical daily routine includes a warm-up, jumping jacks and walking.

"I don’t ask the boys to help me lift boxes anymore," Saki­hama said. "I want to do it on my own."

The sisters report they are happier and "have hope."

"We need to build a strong mind and body," said Fuku­naga. "Now growing old doesn’t seem as dreadful."

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“Be Well” features inspiring stories of people dealing with health challenges. Reach Nancy Arcayna at narcayna@staradvertiser.com or call 529-4808.