ABOUT THE GUEST
Dr. Ryan Chow is a physical therapist and performance coach who focuses on bridging the gap between rehab and strength training for active populations.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
How to integrate PT principles with barbell and dumbbell training to reduce pain and regain capacity.
A simple progression model: assess, regress to the entry point, then reload with intent.
When mobility work helps—and when targeted stability and loading matter more.
Practical ways to program pressing, squatting, and hinging after injury without stalling strength.
KEY TOPICS
Movement assessment vs. chasing symptoms
Load management, range of motion, tempo, and frequency for rehab‑to‑performance
Building a resilient training environment (flooring, equipment choice, and setup)
QUICK ANSWERS
Q: Should I stop lifting if something hurts?
A: Not necessarily. Identify a pain‑free entry point (range, load, tempo), then train within that zone while gradually reloading to restore capacity.
Q: What’s the fastest way to get back to pressing after a shoulder tweak?
A: Use neutral‑grip and partial‑range presses first, add controlled tempos and isometrics, then expand range and load as symptoms allow.
Q: Do I need lots of mobility work to fix low‑back pain?
A: Often you need smarter loading and better hip/core stability. Use targeted mobility where limited, but prioritize progressive strength in hinge and squat patterns.
SHOP THE EPISODE
Premium Powder Coated Kettlebells (for controlled loading and grips)
https://www.ironcompany.com/premium-powder-coated-kettlebells-iron-company-ic-ppck?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep126
IRON COMPANY Urethane Dumbbells (precise progressions for rehab to performance)
https://www.ironcompany.com/iron-company-urethane-dumbbells?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep126
Body‑Solid GFT100 Dual‑Stack Functional Trainer (adjustable cable work for pain‑free ranges)
https://www.ironcompany.com/dual-stack-functional-trainer-body-solid-gft100?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep126
Aeromat Extra‑Firm Foam Rollers (tissue prep and recovery)
https://www.ironcompany.com/aeromat-extra-firm-black-foam-rollers?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep126
SurfaceCo Guardian Heavy‑Duty Tuff Mats (stable, forgiving rubber gym flooring)
https://www.ironcompany.com/surfaceco-guardian-heavy-duty-tuff-mats?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep126
FULL EPISODE LIST & RESOURCES
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep126
IRON COMPANY — gym equipment & gym flooring (trusted since 1997) https://www.ironcompany.com
Start here (podcast hub + resources):
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast
Shop equipment:
• Cardio Equipment (treadmills, bikes, ellipticals): https://www.ironcompany.com/cardio-equipment
• Free Weights (dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells): https://www.ironcompany.com/free-weights
• Gym Flooring (rubber rolls, mats, tiles): https://www.ironcompany.com/rubber-gym-flooring
• Strength Equipment (benches, racks, cages): https://www.ironcompany.com/strength-training-equipment
Training guides:
https://www.ironcompany.com/articles
Government & GSA buyers:
https://www.ironcompany.com/gsa-and-cmas-bid-information
