Shows
Progressive Rehab & StrengthS2 Q&A #3 - Why Barbell Training Is Essential for Adults 50–80: A Rehab Case Study That InspiresIn this episode of the Progressive Rehab & Strength Podcast, Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. John Petrizzo break down how strength training allowed a 75-year-old barbell trainee to avoid inpatient rehab after fracturing both her hip and wrist. Her story is a testament to how barbell training preserves function, independence, and quality of life—even after serious injury. "The stronger you go into these sorts of situations, the better off you're going to be—because you're going to have more lean body mass, more muscle mass, more bone mineral density… So that if you lose some of it, you're...
2025-04-1950 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#55 - Using the Low Bar Back Squat to Address Ankle Mobility DeficitsIf you're a weightlifter or powerlifter you may be wondering if your ankle mobility is affecting your squat depth and that it's something to address before getting under the barbell. For good reason, the internet has been raging about ankle mobility being a major cause of squat depth issues for the last few years. But we'll argue that your ankle mobility isn't affecting your squat. Most people have depth issues related to: Poor coaching Poor body awareness The load simply being too heavy The leg bei...
2023-07-221h 07Progressive Rehab & Strength#52 - Functional Anatomy of the Foot & Ankle in Barbell Training with Dr. John Petrizzo, PT, PRSCC, CSCS, SSCAre you wondering if you need to fix your ankle mobility to squat better, if you should wear orthotics when lifting weights, or why specific shoes help you lift weights? Understanding how the foot and ankle function is important for making specific decisions about your feet and ankles in barbell training. The feet are our connection to the ground and our base of support and force transfer in all movements involving our feet and the ground. Because of this, the foot and ankle are quite complex, have a lot of movement, and have many bones, mu...
2023-07-011h 06Progressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #28: Our Best Piece of Advice for Pelvic Floor & Hernia Symptoms While PowerliftingPelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, hernias, and diastasis recti are common conditions people of all ages and genders experience. You may be wondering if you can powerlift with pelvic floor or core dysfunction and our answer is almost -YES! In the final episode of our Pelvic Health month on the PRS Podcast, Drs. Breanne Maruca, PT, PRSCC, CLT, WCS, CF-L1 and Rori Alter, PT, PRSCC, SSC discuss the easiest way to not only identify your pelvic floor symptoms provocation, but also how to continue to make train progress while addressing your specific issues. ...
2023-06-2722 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#51 - Postpartum Powerlifting: The Unspoken Truth About Returning to Barbell Training After Having a BabyYou have a baby and 6 weeks later you're cleared for exercise. What does this even mean? How are you supposed to return to heavy barbell training or powerlifting after carrying a baby inside of you for 9 months and then delivering them into this world? It is astounding that women are not provided more education and care after growing and delivering a baby. They are expected to heal from 40 weeks of pregnancy and then the trauma of labor and delivery. Whether a woman delivers vaginally or via cesarean section, the amount of physiological and emotional change a...
2023-06-241h 30Progressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #27: The Unlikely Relationship Between Pelvic Floor, Core, and HipsIn this episode of the PRS Podcast, Dr. Rori Alter, PT, PRSCC, SSC sits down with the PRS Pelvic Health Specialist, Dr. Breanne Maruca, PT, PRSCC, CLT, WCS to discuss the relationship between the pelvic floor, core strength, hip, and even back issues. As Rori shared in a previous episode, she noticed an improvement in her hip pain symptoms after pelvic floor therapy, which highlights the fact that the body truly operates as a system, and not a collection of parts. Consequently, pelvic floor health and function should always be considered even when dealing with seemingly unrelated issues.
2023-06-2022 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#50 - Diastasis Recti & Hernias: What you need to know to lift heavy weight even if you have these! Episode #50: Diastasis Recti & Hernias: What you need to know to lift heavy weight even if you have these! Diastasis Recti and Hernias are common abdominal concerns that personal trainers, lifters and doctors are concerned about when it comes to lifting weight. However, it's safe to continue barbell training or powerlifting even if you've been diagnosed with either of these. Though commonly believed to be a tearing of the midline fascia, Diastasis Recti is the separation or widening and weakening of the fascial connection between the two rectus abdominis muscles. Thi...
2023-06-171h 07Progressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #26: Busting the Kegel Myth: Kegels Are Probably Not the Answer for Powerlifters (And Most People) & Here's WhyKegels are the most well known "exercise" for the pelvic floor and most people believe that if you accidentally pee yourself you should do kegels. However, in most cases of incontinence in powerlifting, kegels are not the answer! Kegels are a pelvic floor muscle exercise that was coined by a male physician many years ago. However, most people do not understand how to properly perform a kegel nor properly implement in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction and urinary incontinence. The general population believes that accidentally peeing yourself is a function of...
2023-06-1337 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#49 - Barbell Training, Powerlifting & Prolapse: Does it just affect women? Can you train? Do you need surgery?Pelvic organ prolapse is a dysfunction of the human body that is experienced by men and women. Yes, you read that right, men too. So it's important to understand the symptoms, causes, and treatment options so you're not left wondering: "Can I powerlift with a prolapse?" or "Do I need surgery if I have a prolapse?" Vaginal and rectal prolapse are sensitive topics for most people. In fact, this often leads people to suffer in silence, lose enjoyment for life, and even stop barbell training or competing in powerlifting. However, there are ways to non-surgically a...
2023-06-101h 08Progressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #25: Barbell Training & Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in ALL Genders - YES! Men Too!Pelvic floor dysfunction is extremely common in all genders but it is most definitely not normal! You should not ignore or allow pelvic floor symptoms to continue but you also don't have to stop barbell training. In this episode of the PRS Podcast, PRS Clinical Coach and pelvic health expert, Dr. Breanne Maruca, PT, PRSCC, CLT, WCS brings awareness to all the common abdominal and pelvic floor dysfunctions that men and women experience both inside and outside of barbell training. She describes the following dysfunctions, what they mean, and how you migh...
2023-06-0630 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#48 - Functional Anatomy of the Core & Pelvic Floor in Barbell Training with Dr. Breanne Maruca, PT, PRSCC, CLT, WCSThe core and pelvic floor are often forgotten areas of the body when it comes to addressing injuries and issues in powerlifting. This area of the body is not visible and symptoms associated with dysfunction of the inner core and pelvic floor can present themselves as poor training progress or injuries in the back or limb before a direct issue presents itself. Why does this happen? Well, most people are completely unaware of their pelvic floor and inner core because we don't see them, feel them, or typically think about them. Additionally, their functions are an...
2023-06-031h 04Progressive Rehab & Strength2023 Live Q&A 4: Should you be doing direct neck strengthening exercises?Should you do neck strengthening exercises? Barbell strength trainees often wonder if they should be incorporating more than just barbell training into their programs. Usually these questions boil down to whether or not small isolation exercises have any added benefit or not. PRS Podcast Listener Question: The basic squat, bench press, overhead press, and deadlift are the core exercises for the barbell trainee and powerlifter. How well do they add strength to the muscles that support the neck and head? What are the best accessory exercises for adding strength to the neck? How impo...
2023-04-2609 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #24: Adductor Strains & Tears in Barbell Training - Is a tight shoulder causing it?The adductor group and groin region are commonly injured in barbell training and powerlifting and it could be related to shoulder tightness on the opposite side. PRS Clinical Coaches have identified an interesting phenomenon in a handful of adductor strains and tears they have helped rehabilitate back to full powerlifting strength. This phenomenon is the opposite shoulder and adductor relationship. In this episode they share four cases of mild to severe shoulder tightness resulting in adductor injuries that could have been avoided to a large degree if the...
2023-04-2518 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#42 - Dr. Eric Helms, PhD., CSCS | Gaining Strength After Bilateral FAI & Hip Labral Repair SurgeryDr. Eric Helms, PhD., CSCS of 3D Muscle Journey and barbell athlete shares his path from FAI to hip labral repair and femoral acetabular impingement (FAI) surgery in both hips at the same time. After years of battling the idea of surgery and failed attempts to continue getting stronger, Eric decided to have surgery on both hips due to pain and repeated setbacks in training. For many of us, having surgery is a major decision. We question: What surgeon will perform the procedure? When should you do it? What will...
2023-04-221h 16Progressive Rehab & Strength2023 Live Q&A 3: How to Train When You Don't Have Access to Your Normal EquipmentToday's Live Q&A question comes from Doug, asking how to adjust training when you're away from your normal gym setup. Whether you're on vacation, traveling on business, or otherwise separated from your normal gym, it can be confusing to know what to do when you want to train but don't have access to barbells. Training is still possible though! Rori and Alyssa discuss ways to utilize dumbbells, kettlebells, and even bodyweight exercises to get a good workout in on the road. The key is to know what exercises and movements to substitute, and how...
2023-04-1910 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #23: Deadlifting with Hip Pain | A modification hierarchy so you don't have to stop deadliftingWhile hip pain from deadlift isn't as common as it is with squatting, Knowing how to modify the conventional or sumo deadlift for hip pain of various types is important so you can continue to train for strength and performance despite issues you have with your hips. Hip pain with deadlift can be irritated by a variety of things: Start position Chosen stance Relative load on the bar Stance width Toe out There is almost always a way you can continue to...
2023-04-1813 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#41 - Femoroacetabular Impingement, A Labral Tear, & A Hip Fracture: Coach Rori's Story of 5 Nationals, 4 Arnolds, & 2 World Championships Without SurgeryInjuries can happen to anyone. Even to the people who are supposed to help you prevent training injuries and rehabilitate from powerlifting injuries back to the powerlifting platform. And PRS Clinical Coach Dr. Rori Alter, PT is no different. What we know about injuries, how to treat them, and long term prognosis has changed over the years. Since the onset of Dr. Rori's hip injury over a decade ago, prevalence, diagnostic measures, and treatment options and outcomes have wildly changed for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome and hip labral tears. Dr. Rori has hel...
2023-04-151h 18Progressive Rehab & Strength2023 Live Q&A 2: How to Stay Warm and Protect Your Equipment During the Cold Winter MonthsIn today's live Q&A, Rori and Alyssa field a question about warming up in a cold garage gym, as well as how to protect equipment from humidity and rust. There are a number of ways to heat a gym, but which one is best depends heavily on your climate and your home gym location (attached garage, separate outdoor structure, basement). Alyssa lays out the pros and cons of the different heaters she's tried, and Rori explains the importance of managing your temperature and humidity throughout the day to avoid condensation on equipment (and the inevitable rust that follows).
2023-04-1221 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #22: Squatting with Hip Pain | A modification hierarchy so you don't have to stop squattingFemoroacetabular impingement syndrome, hip osteoarthritis, and general hip pain are common reasons people stop squatting heavy. Knowing how to modify the barbell squat for hip pain of various types is important so you can continue to train for strength and performance despite issues you have with your hips. Hip pain with squats can be irritated by a variety of things: Position in the hole How your joints are timing Relative load on the bar Bar position on the back Torso and hip position throughout the m...
2023-04-1114 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#40 - Inspirational Interview: FAI, Depression, Egg Retrieval & Barbell Training - Overcoming Negative Medical NarrativesThe way doctors talk to their patients is oftentimes insensitive and without care for the person receiving the news. Doctors are in an authoritative position and the language and delivery they choose to use can unintentionally create negative narratives surrounding injuries, like femoroacetabular impingement and barbell training. Doctors may have you believe that surgery is your only option or questioning if you'll ever be able to barbell train pain free with FAI. Our goal with bringing on some of our clients is to share their unique stories, experiences with barbell training, and how their training h...
2023-04-0843 minProgressive Rehab & Strength2023 Live Q&A 1: How to Program Barbell Strength Training for Youth & Adaptive AthletesBarbell strength training for youth athletes and adaptive athletes it's not only possible, but extremely important for sports performance and injury prevention. However, there is a common belief that it's dangerous for youth and adaptive athletes to do resistance training and lift heavy barbells. This episode was recorded live during a Podcast Q&A session in our free Facebook group, The Secret Society of Barbell Mastery where we were asked: "How to program/incorporate Strength training for youth or adaptive athletes." For youth athletes, it's important to consider their:...
2023-04-0514 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #21: Hip Pain in Barbell Training | Understanding how torso and hip position affect symptomsThe hip is one of the most common areas in the body that people experience pain with barbell training and the position of your back and legs can either enhance or reduce your symptoms. The three most important positions of the body to consider if you have hip pain while squatting include the: Back Angle Hip Angle Toe Angle In this episode of the PRS Podcast, physical therapists and PRS Clinical Coaches, Drs. Rori Alter, John Petrizzo, and Alyssa Haveson discuss the influence of the ba...
2023-04-0411 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#39 - Functional Anatomy of the Hip in Barbell Training with Dr. John Petrizzo, PT, CSCS, PRSCC, SSCHip pain is common in barbell training but that doesn't mean that barbell training is bad for your hips or that you need imaging or even surgery to resolve your hip pain. Better understanding your functional anatomy, your technique, and how to optimize your movement (along with optimizing your programming) can give you the tools to address your symptoms while continuing to train. In this episode of the PRS Podcast, PRS Clinical Coaches, Drs. Rori Alter, Alyssa Haveson, and John Petrizzo discuss the functional anatomy of the hip and the role it plays in barbell tr...
2023-04-011h 05Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #14: Bench Press & Breathing | Identifying an Incorrect Breathing Pattern (Part 2)People commonly breathe incorrectly when bench pressing and it can affect their pelvic floor. The proper way to breathe when you bench press is to perform the Valsalva Maneuver. But even still, people execute the Valsalva Maneuver improperly while bench pressing. Breathing correctly while benching is important for injury prevention and optimal strength. When observing bench press technique, if you see the lower abdomen protruding out while the bar is moving down, up, or upon contacting the chest or upon executing the Valsalva Maneuver, this is an indication that the lifter is not performing the V...
2023-03-2905 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #20: The Truth About Belts, Bracing & Your Back in Barbell TrainingIf you're following a strength training or powerlifting program utilizing progressive overload, you'll eventually need a lifting belt. When worn and used properly and combined with the Valsalva Maneuver, a lifting belt is a positive addition to your strength training program. The problem is, there is a lot of misinformation out there about belts. A proper lifting belt is made of a stiff material and applies pressure to the abdomen to enhance your body's ability to utilize the Valsalva Maneuver to create intra-abdominal pressure to indirectly stabilize the spine. Here are so...
2023-03-2813 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#38: The Valsalva Maneuver Explained | How to Breathe While Lifting If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. Join our Facebook Community for free form checks, live Q&As & more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PRS.Barbell.Mastery Got questions or guests you'd like to hear on the show? Submit them here: https://forms.gle/7Vu2HmgHoeQY9xM59 Get in touch with the show! Web: https://www.progressiverehabandstrength.com Email: podcast@progressiverehabandstrength.com Rori IG: @rorimegan_prs Alyssa IG: @alyssahope_prs
2023-03-2556 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #13: Bench Press & Breathing | Identifying an Incorrect Breathing Pattern (Part 1)People commonly breathe incorrectly when bench pressing. The proper way to breathe when you bench press is to perform the Valsalva Maneuver. But even still, people execute the Valsalva Maneuver improperly while bench pressing. Breathing correctly while benching is important for injury prevention and optimal strength. When observing bench press technique, if you see the inhalation and exhalation occur while the bar is moving up and down, this is an indication that the lifter is not performing the Valsalva Maneuver or breathing correctly while benching. In this less-than-ten-minute episode of the PR...
2023-03-2205 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #19: Squatting with Back Pain | A modification hierarchy so you don't have to stop squattingAs one of the most common medical concerns, back pain will arise whether or not you barbell back squat. Knowing how to modify the squat for back pain of various types is important because you'll be faced with it at some point. Back pain with squats usually presents itself in three ways: In the hole At lockout With the whole movement There is almost always a way you can continue to train your barbell back squat through an episode of low back pain even if yo...
2023-03-2112 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthChelsea Savit | From Spinal Fusion to the Platform - An Elite Powerlifter's Athlete Recovery ProcessFor most barbell athletes and powerlifters, the thought of needing any kind of surgery is terrifying and the unknown of what could happen after is even scarier. In many cases, surgery isn't necessary to resolve symptoms but in some situations it is. This can be a major interruption to your life, your training, and your overall identity as a powerlifter but it doesn't have to mean that your barbell training or powerlifting career is over or that you can't be stronger in the future. In this episode of the PRS Podcast we'll sit down and ta...
2023-03-181h 23Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #12: Bench Press Bar Crash | Don't kill the bird & save your bench pressBar crash is a very common bench press mistake that is often overlooked for a variety of reasons. However, bar crash can be responsible for pain, injury, and your bench press failing to progress. So here is how to fix it! Bar crash in the bench press is when the lifter brings the bar down to the chest with little control and too much speed causing loss of tension, force transfer into the thorax, and loss of shoulder position and power in the bench press. When experienced over multiple reps, sets, an...
2023-03-1505 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #18: How to Deadlift with Back Pain | A modification hierarchy so you don't have to stop deadliftingAs one of the most common medical concerns, back pain will arise whether or not you deadlift. Knowing how to modify the deadlift for back pain of various types is important because you'll be faced with it at some point. Back pain with deadlifts usually presents itself in three ways: Off the floor At lockout With the whole movement There is almost always a way you can continue to train your deadlift through an episode of low back pain even if you're using lighter weight or...
2023-03-1418 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#36 - Siana Sylvester, M.Ed., CMPC | Mental Performance Coach Weighs in on Overcoming Injuries in Barbell TrainingEven though we can do everything in our power to avoid injuries, they do occur in barbell and strength sports. We can only reduce the risk of injuries happening but we can't prevent them. We also can't completely prepare for all of the "what ifs" that come along with a potential future injury BUT there are some ways that we can make sure we're in a good position to face injuries head on if they do occur. In this episode of the PRS Podcast we talk with Siana Sylvester, a mental performance coach who works wi...
2023-03-111h 10Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #11: Crumbling Under the Squat | Novice Barbell Athlete ProblemsBarbell training is intimidating for a lot of people. New lifters don't have solid technique and they have never handled near max loads. That's why novice lifters should not be testing 1RMs or training with very heavy loads. While a relatively light weight may feel challenging to a novice barbell trainee, they don't know what hard feels like. Eventually though, the loads they are using will become relatively challenging. For some novice trainees, it's just another day in the gym and their mindset, technique, and effort adapts to meet the load on...
2023-03-0808 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #17: Understanding Spinal Radiculopathy, Positional & Localized Back Pain in Barbell Training & Powerlifting with Dr. John Petrizzo, PT, CSC, PRSCC, SSCLow back pain is one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor. It's a very common disorder and something humans will experience whether they are active, sedentary, barbell train, or do anything at all. But back pain can be really scary and when we're in the thick of it, we may feel like it will never go away. In this episode of the PRS Podcast, PRS Clinical Coaches Drs. John Petrizzo, Alyssa Haveson & Rori Alter sit down to discuss the three types of back pain: Radiating back pain P...
2023-03-0711 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#35 - Functional Anatomy of the Spine in Barbell Training with Dr. John Petrizzo, PT, CSCS, PRSCC, SSCLow back pain is one of the most common injuries in the general population. In all sports, including barbell training, powerlifting, and resistance training, back pain is just as common. Therefore, we should not believe that squats and deadlifts are bad for your back. In fact, they are important for increasing the health and resiliency of your spine, and decreasing your pain. In this episode of the PRS Podcast, PRS Clinical Coaches, Drs. Rori Alter, Alyssa Haveson, and John Petrizzo discuss the functional anatomy of the spine and the role it plays in barbell training. Th...
2023-03-041h 00Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #10: The Overhead Press | Stop Leaning the Bar Back Into the Rack!How you rack the bar for overhead press (and any lifts) matters. If you're still holding the bar in your hands, then the set isn't over quite yet and you should still consider how you're handling the bar. If you're leaning the bar back into the rack, it's time to stop. When you lean the bar back into the rack instead of walking it back in, you're increasing your risk for developing or exacerbating symptoms and risking your safety. So even if you feel just fine, leaning the bar back into the rack is risky be...
2023-03-0104 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #16: Should You Have Meniscus Surgery - Yes or No?Doctors often recommend a "simple" arthroscopic knee surgery to address knee pain associated with meniscus tears. And athletes often believe that because their meniscus is torn, they will always have pain and need surgery. However, in most cases, we recommend you don't have knee surgery for simple meniscal tears for a variety of reasons. If you've ever wondered if a knee scope is the answer to your knee pain with the diagnosis of a meniscus tear, we urge you to think again. Many people do not realize that: The maj...
2023-02-2815 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#34 - The Importance of Video Analysis For Barbell Training & Powerlifting PLUS Ways to Improve ItTaking videos of your barbell lifts allows you to improve training outcomes, reduce injury risk, improve training autonomy and decrease financial barriers to coaching. The problem is that taking videos can feel cumbersome or make you feel like you're "that person" in the gym. And you might wonder if it's really necessary, especially if people used to get by just fine without recording themselves. We have this tool that allows us to enhance our training, our coaching businesses, and our clinical outcomes, so why not use it? Videos allow us to provide additional feedback, keep a...
2023-02-2559 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #9: The Barbell Squat | Don't Forget to Lock Out the Last Rep - Here's Why!Achieving full knee lockout at the end of the squat rep is an important element of quad strengthening and injury prevention. A common technical issue we see with the barbell squat that may lead to knee pain or other injuries or issues, is not achieving full knee extension on the last rep of the set. This has many indications including: Anterior knee pain Hitting the rack with the plates on the way in Missing the hooks when trying to re-rack the weight A we...
2023-02-2207 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #15: Knee Pain During the Bench Press | What to Do About It If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave us a review on Apple or Spotify. Join our Facebook Community for free form checks, live Q&As & more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PRS.Barbell.Mastery Got questions or guests you'd like to hear on the show? Submit them here: https://forms.gle/7Vu2HmgHoeQY9xM59 Get in touch with the show! Web: https://www.progressiverehabandstrength.com Email: podcast@progressiverehabandstrength.com Rori IG: @rorimegan_prs Alyssa IG: @alyssahope_prs
2023-02-2111 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#33 - Inspirational Interview | Beginning Barbell Training at 77 Years Old - It's Never Too Late to StartAre you too old to lift weights and barbell train? There is often a negative connotation associated with barbell training and the aging population. The thought is, it's not safe to lift heavy weights if you're old. But when done optimally, it's safe, leads to improved function, and protects long term health. Our goal with bringing on some of our clients is to share their unique stories, experiences with barbell training, and how their training has impacted their lives positively despite the negative medical narratives and belief systems surrounding barbell strength training in hopes that i...
2023-02-1930 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #8: Your Bench Press Lockout Is Sketchy - Fix It!What We Saw Wednesday #8: Your Bench Press Lockout Is Sketchy - Fix It!Achieving a full bench press lockout is one of the most important components of the bench press for optimal strength development, injury risk reduction, and a qualifying lift in powerlifting competitions. While most people think of the lock out as the end of the bench press movement, there is also a lockout before the movement of the first rep starts. A common but often overlooked issue we see with the bench press is that the lifter does not fully lock out their elbows on the bench press after the un-rack and before the start of t...
2023-02-1505 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #14: Anterior Knee Pain With Deadlifting | Why & How To Address ItWhile the deadlift is not as tough on your knees as the squat, you may experience anterior knee pain when deadlifting. If you're wondering what to do when your knee hurts while deadlifting, we're here to help! As with the squat, in the deadlift the knees are bent. However, there is less knee bend, less concentric muscle motion, and almost no eccentric muscle motion in the deadlift. Because of these reasons, we tend to see less knee pain with deadlifts than the squat. However, that does not mean you'll never experience knee pain with the d...
2023-02-1413 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#32 - Inspirational Interview | Overcoming Chronic Pain & Identity Loss Through Barbell TrainingChronic pain, injury, and illness often holds people back from being physically active and participating in competitive or recreational sports. This may lead to identity loss, depression, and poor health. Medical doctors frequently warn people against barbell training with such considerations, but in fact, barbell training is one of the few things that can positively impact change long term. Our goal with bringing on some of our clients is to share their unique stories, experiences with barbell training, and how their training has impacted their lives positively despite the negative medical narratives and belief systems s...
2023-02-1139 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #7: Weight Shifting Forward On Squats | Why your knees or bar shifts forward or heels pop up and how to fix it!When we see the heels pop up, knees slide forward, or a forward shifting bar path in the squat, we know that your squat technique is not optimal. While this may not inherently be a problem or cause an injury, over time, a forward squat can lead to missed lifts, stalled progress, or unexpected injury. In this episode of the PRS Podcast we discuss three indications that you're too forward in your squat and how to fix it. Here are three reasons you're weight shifting forward on squat...
2023-02-0806 minProgressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #13: Anterior Knee Pain From Squatting | Why It's Happening & How To Address ItKnee pain from squatting happens due to a variety of factors. Squat frequency, intensity, volume, and technique all play a part in anterior knee pain. Here we are going to address technical considerations of the squat and knee pain to assist in reducing it. From a technical point of view, the acuteness of the knee angle at the bottom of the squat may be a contributor to anterior knee pain. There are a variety of things that may increase the acuteness of the knee angle including: Depth Bar Placement Eye Gaz...
2023-02-0719 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#31 - Functional Anatomy of the Knee in Barbell Training With Dr. John Petrizzo, PT, CSCS, PRSCC, SSCUnderstanding the functional anatomy of the knee in barbell training is an important aspect of biomechanics that powerlifters, physical therapists, chiropractors, strength coaches, and doctors should understand. When you understand how the knee joint is structured and functions you'll have a better understanding of why certain ways of performing the squat and deadlift are more optimal than others. This will also help you understand the normal forces on the knee joint and how we can combine our knowledge of powerlifting programming and barbell movement mechanics to maintain healthy, pain free movements despite atypical structure and jo...
2023-02-0446 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#30 - Inspirational Interview | Post-Hysterectomy Return to High Level Powerlifting CompetitionsA hysterectomy is a major surgery that needs time to recover from. Returning to powerlifting after a hysterectomy is safe but a process that needs to be respected and slow in order for the body to heal and rebuild. Our goal with bringing on some of our clients is to share their unique stories, experiences with barbell training, and how their training has impacted their lives positively despite the negative medical narratives and belief systems surrounding barbell strength training in hopes that it inspires even just one person out there. In this...
2023-01-2826 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#29 - Inspirational Interview | Barbell Training With Scoliosis, Osteoarthritis & OsteopeniaPeople often wonder if it's safe to barbell training or powerlift if you have scoliosis or osteoarthritis in your joints. When done correctly, barbell resistance training is one of the best ways to reduce joint pain, improve posture, and slow the progression of your curvature and bone loss due to osteopenia and osteoporosis. Our goal with bringing on some of our clients is to share their unique stories, experiences with barbell training, and how their training has impacted their lives positively despite the negative medical narratives and belief systems surrounding barbell strength training in hopes t...
2023-01-2124 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#28 - Inspirational Interview | Don't Let Surgeries Stop You From Barbell Training or PowerliftingSurgery after surgery could easily stop someone from continuing to powerlift or barbell train. And oftentimes we're faced with the worry that we'll never get back to where we were before surgery. It's important during these times to shift our focus and our mindset to what we can do in order to stay motivated and not lose what we're so passionate about. Our goal with bringing on some of our clients is to share their unique stories, experiences with barbell training, and how their training has impacted their lives positively despite the negative medical narratives an...
2023-01-1430 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#27 - Inspirational Interview | How to Avoid Hip Surgery With the Barbell & Mindset ShiftsExperiencing hip pain with squats, getting diagnosed with a labral tear, and facing the possibility of hip surgery after failed attempts at traditional physical therapy can be demoralizing. It's possible to overcome a labrum tear and continue barbell training without surgery. If you're only trying to treat the pain through low level exercises and not addressing technique, programming, and developing an understanding of the pain experience, you may not get the outcomes you were hoping for. Our goal with bringing on some of our clients is to share their unique stories, experiences with barbell training, an...
2023-01-0759 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthInspirational Interview | Barbell Training After a Heart TransplantHeavy resistance training after a heart transplant might scare most people but it's important for long term health and function. We share a story about how barbell training can help you get stronger and improve your quality of life after a heart transplant. This is the first episode in our series of inspirational client interviews. As we head into the new year, we wanted to bring some of our clients on to talk about their unique stories, experiences with barbell training, and how their training has impacted their lives positively despite the negative medical narratives a...
2022-12-2930 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthLive Hot Seat Q&A Session | Clinical Coaching, Technique, Injury Rehab & MoreThis episode of the PRS Podcast was a free event offered to individuals who signed up to receive our free PRS Lifting Manual or Clinical Coach Starter Kit. During this live Hot Seat event we answered pre-submitted questions and questions from the live audience. Here are just some of the questions we discussed during this live event: How long should we wait to increase the weight on the bar for a new lifter? Do we need them to have perfect technique before increasing the bar weight? What are some g...
2022-12-2251 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthDanny Lennon, MSc - Cutting & Confining to a Powerlifting Weight Class | A Decision HierarchyThe sport of powerlifting is composed of competitive weight classes. As such, during the competitive growth of a powerlifter, they are faced with the decisions to choose a weight class to compete in. However, for a competitive advantage, a majority of competitive powerlifters choose to sit slightly above their chosen weight class and weight cut into competition. In this episode of the PRS Podcast we sit down with expert nutritionist, podcast host, coach and competitive fighter and powerlifter, Danny Lennon, MSc to discuss the topic of weight manipulation for the weight class sport of powerlifting. W...
2022-12-171h 06Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #4: How to Breathe in the Press (Top or Bottom?)Rori shares a recent issue with one her lifters, in which he was holding his breath for all five reps in his overhead press sets. He acknowledged that he was unsure where he should be breathing, which sparked a conversation about breathing strategy in the press. The most important thing, Rori explains, is making every rep the same, including your breathing pattern. Whether you breathe at the top and utilize a rebound to drive the bar out of the bottom each rep, or you breathe at the bottom with a strict press, practice every warmup rep and every work...
2022-12-1407 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthDr. Robert Santana, PhD, RD, SSC | Weight Gain & Lean Body Mass Increases for Strength Athletes - Does gaining weight make you stronger?Caloric intake is important for building strength and muscle mass, but just how much you need depends on your goals and your current body composition. In this episode, PRS Clinical Coaches Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. Alyssa Haveson sat down with Dr. Robert Santana to discuss the concepts of dietary intake and muscle mass development in barbell strength and powerlifting athletes. Robert has an extensive background in all things health and fitness. Earning his Ph.D. as a Registered Dietician while excelling in various settings, from the hospital to high-performance athletes, Dr. Santana is also a R...
2022-12-101h 30Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #3: Keep Your Butt on the Bench with this CueRori analyzes an unusual bench press error that recently cropped up with one of her lifters. In this case, the lifter was raising her butt off the bench slightly when taking a breath to establish a valsalva and set her upper back before the rep. The problem became exacerbated as fatigue set in. In powerlifting, however, the lifter's butt must stay in contact with the bench throughout the rep, so doing this in competition may cost you a lift! Rori's cue to fix this? Actively "feel" your butt on the bench as you breathe. While i...
2022-12-0707 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#22 - Facebook Live #2: Programming, Nutrition & Injuries!Dr. Rori Alter, PT, PRSCC, SSC, and Dr. Alyssa Haveson, PT, PRSCC, CSCS, sat down with the listeners to answer all the questions submitted for our October 2022 live Q&A podcast show! They covered an array of topics, but because these were questions asked directly, they were able to address individual cases while providing valuable insight for everyone. These topics included: ☑️The intention of exercise selection and the purpose of variations. In addition to how to make changes to meet the needs of the individual. ☑️Technique cues you might be missing. ☑️Education on pain and injury duri...
2022-12-031h 08Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #2: Are You Making This Bench Press Leg Drive Mistake?Leg drive in the bench press is one of the most important elements for successfully building a large bench press and keeping your shoulders healthy. However, you may be doing it wrong. In this episode of the Progressive Rehab & Strength Podcast, Rori discusses a common leg drive error that many people make. If you're experiencing pec or shoulder pain or abruptly failing one to two inches off the chest, you may be making this leg drive mistake. Join our Facebook Community for free form checks, live Q&As & more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PRS.Barb...
2022-11-3005 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#21 - Mindset & Habits To Build A Healthy Relationship With Food For Strength, Performance, Physique & Life With Alessandra & Josh Scutnik of SD EvolutionDeciphering accurate health and fitness information can be challenging in a world of information overload! Especially when trying to fit it into your already busy life. In today's episode, Dr. Rori Alter, PT, PRSCC, SSC, and Dr. Alyssa Haveson, PT, PRSCC, sit down with special guests: Alessandra and Josh Scutnik, the creators of SD Evolution and FIT Coach Pro. They cover essential and practical tools that you must hear to achieve your desired, healthy lifestyle: 🌱The core of healthy nutrition habits to ensure you achieve your goals 🌱Common roadblocks or "excuses" that people face or...
2022-11-261h 17Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat We Saw Wednesday #1: Knee Pain When You Lift? Check This Unracking & Reracking Mistake!If you're experiencing knee pain when you barbell train or powerlift and you've done all the things to try and address it, check this unracking and reracking mistake. In this What We Saw Wednesday episode Rori discusses a racking mistake that has the potential to contribute just enough stress on the knee that your knee pain doesn't resolve. Click HERE to access the Barbell Athlete's Guide to Filming Lifts! Join our Facebook Community for free form checks, live Q&As & more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PRS.Barbell.Mastery Got qu...
2022-11-2306 minProgressive Rehab & Strength#20 - Dr. Christy Alexon, PhD, RD | Nutrition for Strength Sport Performance, Physique & Optimal HealthAbout This Episode: Rori and Alyssa invite nutritionist, nutrition coach, and competitive bodybuilder Christy Alexon onto the show to discuss proper nutrition and eating habits for maximizing strength and muscular development. Christy holds a PhD in Physical Activity, Nutrition and Wellness from Arizona State University, and lectures on nutrition and metabolic science at Arizona State as a Clinical Associate Professor. Christy also has an extensive training background, having competed in powerlifting and currently competing in natural bodybuilding in the bikini division. As a result, Christy has both in-depth scientific knowledge and practical experience in getting as strong...
2022-11-191h 24Progressive Rehab & Strength[Exclusive Interview] Why Study Strength Training & Coaching As A Physical Therapist With Dr. Al Lin, PTThere has been an undeniable shift in the clinical physical rehabilitation field, and it's been steadily changing since about 2015. Physical therapists and chiropractors no longer focus solely on pain management, short-term relief, isolation techniques, manual therapy, and modalities. Instead, they aim to influence the whole person in front of them and achieve global long-term tissue change with a patient's unique goals in mind. This evolution has been extremely revolutionary. It has led to much more successful outcomes and happier patients. Clinicians who utilize this progressive approach can influence patients on a level we were never taught in sc...
2022-11-1747 min
Progressive Rehab & Strength{24 Hour Bonus!} Barbell Movement Masterclass LIVE Replay!ATTENTION ALL ATHLETES, COACHES & CLINICIANS! Enrollment for our online course, Barbell Coaching & Movement Optimization, is now open! BCMO is a comprehensive online mentorship course on technique, theory, & practical application for all clinical, coaching, and athletic levels helping you: ✓Understand the biomechanics & physics of barbell training ✓Know what optimal technique is & how to choose the right lift for the individual ✓Effectively coach movement in the in-person or remote setting ✓Develop movement assessment and modification skills ✓Have a lifting model to concisely coach the main barbell movements (squat, bench press, deadli...
2022-11-1755 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthBonus Episode: Rori & Alyssa Walk Through the Barbell Coaching & Movement Optimization Online Mentorship CourseATTENTION ALL ATHLETES, COACHES & CLINICIANS! Enrollment for our online course, Barbell Coaching & Movement Optimization, is now open! BCMO is a comprehensive online mentorship course on technique, theory, & practical application for all clinical, coaching, and athletic levels helping you: ✓Understand the biomechanics & physics of barbell training ✓Know what optimal technique is & how to choose the right lift for the individual ✓Effectively coach movement in the in-person or remote setting ✓Develop movement assessment and modification skills ✓Have a lifting model to concisely coach the main barbell movements (squat, bench press, deadli...
2022-11-1522 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #12: Staff PT to Cash PT | 4 Hacks to Transitioning From Working FOR Someone to Working For YourselfThe number one question asked by our Clinical Barbell Coaching Institute physical therapy, chiropractic, or barbell coaching students is "how do I combat the experience of being undervalued, underpaid, overworked, and having terrible hours at my current job?" You aren't alone if you want to break free of the status quo. So often, people feel forced to practice a certain way and handcuffed to the model of the company they work for. Whether that is people who are coaching for a corporate model, practicing clinicians at a mill-model clinic, or athletes look...
2022-11-1514 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthClient Spotlight: Why Powerlifters Need To Learn About Technique & Programming With Stephanie TracyA coach's job is to educate a lifter on safe and effective barbell technique, maximize strength and muscular development, help ensure goal attainment through appropriate programming and technique, provide support throughout the process, and ultimately keep people happy and lifting for years to come. But it takes two to tango! The athlete plays an essential role in the success of the coaching experience. An athlete's transparency, communication, and knowledge is always a huge asset for a coach as they provide the pieces to the puzzle to help the coach optimize everything. The more knowledgeable and i...
2022-11-1248 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #11: Choosing the Right Cue in Barbell TrainingSince the world of strength sports has entered the online sphere, more and more coaches are providing services remotely. This shift is incredible, but it leads us to question what a "cue" really is and highlights a huge misconception of what constitutes cueing for barbell athletes. And for those who are still coaching in person, cueing can be a bit overwhelming for you and your athletes. Constantly wrestling with questions such as: "what is the best cue for this athlete or this particular movement?", "When is the most appropriate time to provide a cue?", "how ma...
2022-11-0815 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthBarbell Training Adaptability: How To Avoid The Biggest Pitfalls Of A Rigid Approach To TrainingMany barbell athletes experience aches and pains during their training even when they feel like they're doing everything right. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts or adherence to a specific template program or movement model, they can be left feeling less than ideal and struggling to push through discomfort or pain. Whether you are a barbell or powerlifting coach working with athletes, a physical therapist or chiropractor rehabbing injured powerlifters through the athlete recovery process, or the person experiencing this, it can be very frustrating for everyone involved. Don't get us wrong, trai...
2022-11-0536 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #10: How to Modify the Barbell Lifts for Pain or InjuryMany barbell athletes experience aches, pains, and injuries. Whether a specific incident happens during or outside of lifting, these injuries can impact training and leave you confused about how to best manage continuing to train in pursuit of your strength goals. The last thing you want to do or tell someone is to "stop lifting." Here at PRS, we want to ensure athletes stay lifting and working toward their goals no matter what. To do this, we have created four core goals that we aim to accomplish when working with any cli...
2022-11-0112 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthThe Principles of Functional Movement: Applying Barbell training to the Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation PopulationsIn clinical rehabilitation there is often a separation between therapeutic exercises and strength training. Clinicians take a "bottom-up" approach to treatment, starting as simple and gentle as possible, often prolonging the rehab experience or even leaving it incomplete. Our philosophy at PRS is that strength training should be the foundation of physical therapy utilizing a "top-down" approach, starting at the highest functional strength training level a patient can tolerate. In order to do so, physical therapists and chiropractors need to be coaches in addition to just therapists. There 3 major problems physical therapists and chiropractors face are: Mo...
2022-10-2933 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #9: Chin Ups & Pull Ups | How to choose the right assistance exercises and progressions to get your first chin up & keep adding 1 more repChin ups and pull ups are essential exercises for all strength based sports, including powerlifting. At the same time, they are the hardest exercises to progress and it often takes months to years for people to get their first pull up and add more reps to their pull up and chin up bank. In this episode of the PRS Podcast we discuss: How to choose the right assisted version based on your goals, abilities, and equipment access. Why pull-ups are hard and progress slower than the main lifts The number one way to...
2022-10-2514 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthDr. Beth Terranova, PT Scoliosis & Barbell Training Expert | Don't let the spine scare you!There is a lot of fear surrounding the spine and weight training. When it comes to scoliosis and resistance training with barbells, there is even more fear and warnings from doctors, personal trainers and family members that lifting heavy with barbells will worsen the scoliotic curve. We brought in scoliosis and spine expert, Dr. Beth Terranova, physical therapist, scoliosis specialist, barbell strength coach, and a graduate of our courses here at PRS to discuss the benefits of barbell training for people with scoliosis. In this episode Dr. Beth discusses all about scoli...
2022-10-221h 19Progressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #8: How To Overhead Press Optimally (even when everyone says not to!)The standing barbell overhead press or military press is an essential exercise to include in all powerlifting programs and strength, conditioning programs for sport athletes, and rehabilitation of the upper extremity. So in this episode, we're going to share how to overhead press optimally and without pain. The overhead press is often misunderstood by strength coaches, physical therapists, and doctors. Additionally, its importance in supplementing the bench press is often overlooked by most powerlifting coaches and powerlifters. In this episode of the PRS Podcast, we discuss how to effectively optimize your bod...
2022-10-1817 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthDr. Jenna Nitowski, DC: Understanding Chiropractic Care & Strength Training Through A Clinical Coach's LensIn this episode of the PRS Podcast, our special guest is Dr. Jenna Nitowski, chiropractor, barbell strength and running coach, in-person and remote clinical coaching business owner, and a graduate of our courses here at PRS. Jenna discusses her journey to creating a chiropractic practice that bridges the gap between traditional chiropractic care and exercise rehabilitation. Dr. Jenna shares her insight on: How her journey as an injured highschool runner led her to seek higher education and a profession integrating exercise and rehabilitation The difference between traditional and progressive chiropractic car...
2022-10-151h 06Progressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #7: How To Sumo Deadlift | The only 3 ways it's different from the conventional deadliftAt PRS we believe that the sumo deadlift and conventional deadlift are actually extremely similar and should be executed exactly the same. We've identified only three differences between the conventional deadlift and in this podcast episode we dive into them! Stance - how we set our feet relative to our knees & why we don't recommend going too wide Toe Position - dictated relative to the hip position and thigh position Grip Width - inside your feet with one issue for small people In addition to the three differences between sumo and conventional deadlift, we discuss a c...
2022-10-1113 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTherex vs. Barbells | Combating The Corrective Exercise & Therapeutic Exercise Mindset in the Clinical Rehabilitation & Fitness Settings With Dr. John Petrizzo If you're a physical therapist, chiropractor, or personal trainer struggling to know when and how to choose multi joint exercises, like the main barbell lifts, over single joint isolation therex, this episode is for you. In this episode we discuss the benefits of starting at the top with our exercise selection (the main barbell lifts) instead of the bottom and why we feel therapists and coaches default to isolation or therapeutic exercises. We further discuss if there is a difference between training and rehab and how do we bridge the gap if there is.
2022-10-081h 09Progressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #6: The Conventional Deadlift | How To Deadlift With Optimal Form To Maximize Strength & Lower Injury RiskOf all the powerlifts, the deadlift is usually the heaviest for most people and it's performed last in competition. Because of the absolute load and relative fatigue of the deadlift, it's important to optimize your mechanics to lift the most amount of weight possible while reducing your injury risk. However, like many of the other barbell lifts, there is a lack of consensus on the best way to perform the deadlift. In this episode of the Progressive Rehab & Strength Podcast we review the most important key factors for optimizing your position an...
2022-10-0415 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthBecoming a Clinical Strength Coach: 5 Things That Hold People Back & How To Overcome ThemIf you're here, you're likely a barbell athlete who is interested in becoming a coach or a physical therapist or chiropractor interested in taking a more progressive approach to rehab but something is holding you back. In today's episode we discuss and provide strategies for the five most common things that hold people back from pursuing a career as a barbell coach or clinical barbell rehab coach. 1 - Mindset & imposter syndrome 2 - Putting yourself out there 3 - Where to get your first client 4 - Feeling prep...
2022-10-0149 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #5: Exactly How to Bench Press to Reduce Injury Without Stealing Your Gains (and how to coach it too!)While the bench press is one of the easiest barbell exercises to learn, performing it optimally takes knowledge and precision. In this episode of the PRS podcast we discuss all the important components of the bench press and how to optimize them. We cover: How to position yourself on the bench relative to the bar and where your feet should go. Where to set your grip and how to figure that out based on your own body anthropometry. How to safely unrack the bar to reduce unwanted energy expenditure and safely bench alone Setting your shoulders, b...
2022-09-2713 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthIntegrating Physical Therapy and Strength Training (Part 2): Is the CSCS all you need?The CSCS is considered one of the most prestigious strength and conditioning certifications but interestingly, many people who obtain this certification continue to struggle with exercise prescription and barbell coaching. In this episode of the Progressive Rehab & Strength Podcast Dr. John Petrizzo, PT, CSCS, SSC, PRSCC and professor in Exercise Science at Adelphi University joins us to discuss some of the missing links between the theory and practical application of strength and conditioning, barbell coaching, and clinical rehabilitation. Some missing links include: Actually performing a barbell strength training program consistently Time and exp...
2022-09-2448 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #4: Exactly How to Low Bar Squat (and how to coach it too!)Having a framework for teaching and a baseline movement model for the low bar squat can help you easily lift more weight and reduce the risk for wrist pain, elbow shoulder pain, knee, hip and lower back pain with the low bar squat. It will also help you develop the technical intricacies of the squat that are unique to each individual. In this episode of the Progressive Rehab & Strength Podcast we'll walk you through our exact framework and movement model for the low bar back squat and how to optimize for the individual. W...
2022-09-2018 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthIntegrating Physical Therapy and Strength Training (Part 1): On becoming a specialist in physical therapy for powerliftingIf you're a rehab clinician who wants to combine physical therapy and strength training, or you're looking to become a barbell coach or powerlifting coach but you don't know where to start or fear is holding you back, we want to share our journey with you. We were once in your shoes. We were the new grad physical therapists who also happened to train with barbells in the gym. We knew there was a better way than the traditional model of physical therapy to get people better, but it wasn't taught to us in school, an...
2022-09-1739 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #3: How to Fix Wrist Pain with Low Bar Squats (and high bar too!)Wrist pain while squatting is not uncommon but it's not something you need to experience forever. There are many reasons your wrists hurt while squatting but it's really an easy fix! If you have wrist pain with the low bar squat it could be due to: Bar Placement Bar Rolling Grip Width Elbow Position Excessive Wrist Extension Grip Type In this episode of the Progressive Rehab & Strength Podcast we address all the reasons your wrists hurt while you squat and give you ways to reduce your wrist pain based on the reason it's ha...
2022-09-1313 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthDoing Your First Powerlifting Meet | Sharing our storiesThe powerlifting bug. We all get it eventually. When we get under the barbell and train consistently we start to wonder "when should I do a powerlifting meet?" The problem is that doubt starts to creep in and you think: "I'm not strong enough." "I don't want to lose." "I'm not ready yet." But the truth of the matter is, it doesn't matter. If you're thinking about doing a powerlifting meet it means it's time to do one. The...
2022-09-1043 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthTen Minute Tip #2: Worried About Back Pain & The Bench Press? 7 Surprising Ways to Fix ItLow back pain in powerlifting and barbell training is a common complaint injured lifters report. However, low back pain in the bench press does not have to stop you from continuing to train through the athlete recovery process. In this episode of the PRS Podcast we answer: -Why your back hurts from bench pressing -If it safe to bench press with an arch -What to do if you have back pain with the bench press lift off -How to address back pain with leg drive in the ben...
2022-09-0611 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthBarbell Training Considerations for the Older Adult | Is Powerlifting Programming for the Master Lifter all that different?One of the most common misconceptions of barbell training for various "populations" is that it needs to be different, particularly when it comes to barbell training for the Masters Lifter. In this episode of the PRS Podcast, Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. Alyssa Haveson uncover the misconception that barbell training and powerlifting programming needs to be different from the general, younger population. Here at PRS we never recommend programming templates. We always recommend that programming be catered and tailored to the individual based on their Athlete Identity. This encompasses: Continuity of training & training history...
2022-09-031h 23Progressive Rehab & Strength10 Minute Tip #1: Weightlifting Belts | How to Choose a Powerlifting or Barbell Strength Training BeltIf you lift consistently enough and for long enough, you'll need a powerlifting belt eventually. In this 10 Minute Tip podcast episode, Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. Alyssa Haveson give you the quick and dirty rundown of how to know what weightlifting belt is right for you. They cover the key components of lifting belts including: Belt thickness Belt width Belt circumference Material & stiffness Buckle type And help you figure out which is right for your body, what powerlifting belt is best to get if you're only getting one, and when to act...
2022-08-3015 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthPeeing & Powerlifting | The Truth About Powerlifting Specific Urinary Incontinence Causes & ManagementWondering why you pee when you lift weights? Or are you working with a powerlifter who may be experiencing incontinence when they're training? Powerlifting Urinary Incontinence is a specific type of athletic incontinence experienced by women (or men!) only when they are barbell training. In this episode of the PRS Podcast, Dr. Rori Alter, PT, and Dr. Alyssa Haveson, PT, discuss the specific condition of Powerlifting Urinary Incontinence that affects 74% of female powerlifters between the ages of 18 and 35 with no other risk factors for or symptoms of incontinence outside of barbell training. U...
2022-08-271h 15Progressive Rehab & StrengthWhat's the Best Barbell Training or Powerlifting App?In our inaugural live audience recording of the PRS Podcast, hosts Drs. Alyssa Haveson and Rori Alter present the history behind the coaching delivery system they custom built for the PRS Sustainable Training Method. The PRS Sustainable Training Builder was created to integrate barbell strength and powerlifting programming with the important data analysis needed to meet the 4 Core Goals of PRS and the needs of the athlete. Maximize strength & muscular development Reduce injury risk Optimize goal attainment Instill longevity in lifting & life In this episode they review: Why they struggled with coaching platforms like Tru...
2022-08-1331 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthPain & Injuries in Barbell Training, Pt. 3 | Dealing with an Injury in the MomentBarbell training injuries will happen no matter what because, as discussed in prior podcast episodes and articles, injury prevention is not a thing. So when barbell training injuries do happen, what is the athlete recovery process like? And how can we continue to train through the athlete recovery process? In this episode of the PRS Podcast, Drs Rori Alter and Alyssa Haveson wrap up the barbell training series on pain and injuries to help barbell trainees and powerlifters get through the athlete recovery processes efficiently. Dealing with a barbell training injury is...
2022-07-301h 20Progressive Rehab & StrengthPain & Injuries in Barbell Training, Pt. 2 | Do You Need an MRI?In Part 2 of the pain & injury series, Drs. Rori Alter and Alyssa Haveson explore the three components involved in the experience of pain, the biopsychosocial model of pain, and why people experience pain differently. Pain is a complex physical and emotional response, that sometimes -- but not always! -- occurs in response to injury or physical trauma. It's tempting to trace pain and injury to a specific event, or a problematic joint or muscle, but this is often difficult to do. While MRIs are a useful tool, they d...
2022-07-2352 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthPain & Injuries In Barbell Training, Pt. 1 | What are Injuries and How Do They Happen?There are a few common problems in barbell training and powerlifting surrounding training injuries: Powerlifters stop barbell training altogether, do low load, non functional rehab exercises, mobility work, jump to injections, or surgery before ever trying to address the issues that led to the problem. Lifters stop barbell training until their pain goes away and then resume training without addressing the issue and their symptoms come right back. People believe they need to know what structure is injured in order to be treated or resume/continue training. Why does this happen? Because of the narratives the medical and exercise w...
2022-07-1659 minProgressive Rehab & Strength9 Reasons Why Barbell Training Technique Matters | Build Optimal Performance and Reduce Your Risk of InjuriesAs one of the most talked about topics in powerlifting, everyone always wonders and debates about barbell training technique. Does barbell technique really matter or is it something we don't really need to worry about for "injury prevention" in powerlifting? For Dr. Rori and Dr. Alyssa, powerlifting and barbell training technique is VERY important, but not in the way you may think. Lifting with safe, efficient, and repeatable mechanics ensures that you have optimal performance under the bar, avoid form breakdown, and reduce your risk of injuries. Maintaining technique is an imp...
2022-07-091h 12Progressive Rehab & StrengthBarbell Training Motivation | 4 Influences & How To Combat Them!Wouldn't it be great if we were always motivated to train? If you've ever experienced lulls in your motivation to train with barbells or keep up with your powerlifting training, you're not alone. Barbell training motivation ebbs and flows and is a natural part of the training experience. However, there are many factors that contribute to changes in training motivation and it's how we respond to it that makes all the difference! In this episode of the Progressive Rehab & Strength Podcast, Dr. Rori and Dr. Alyssa explore strategies for creating and maintaining motivation in your t...
2022-06-251h 04Progressive Rehab & StrengthFlex Your Mental Biceps: How to Stay Motivated to Train When You Really Don't Want ToDr. Rori and Dr. Alyssa explore strategies for creating and maintaining motivation in your training through the ups and downs of your lifting career. It's easy to train when spirits are high, you are having fun and hitting PR's, but anyone who has trained for mulitple years knows that everyone goes through slumps from time to time. Whether it's an injury, stalling out in your progress, or simply a lot of life stuff that is affecting your training, motivation can be hard to find. But by setting attainable goals, creating a solid plan for progress (and sticking t...
2022-06-181h 04Progressive Rehab & StrengthFlex Your Mental Biceps: How to Stay Motivated to Train When You Really Don't Want ToDr. Rori and Dr. Alyssa explore strategies for creating and maintaining motivation in your training through the ups and downs of your lifting career. It's easy to train when spirits are high, you are having fun and hitting PR's, but anyone who has trained for mulitple years knows that everyone goes through slumps from time to time. Whether it's an injury, stalling out in your progress, or simply a lot of life stuff that is affecting your training, motivation can be hard to find. But by setting attainable goals, creating a solid plan for progress (a...
2022-06-111h 04Progressive Rehab & Strength7 Tools To Become A Coach Successfully | Barbell Training, Powerlifting & Physical TherapyBarbell & Powerlifting Coaching and Physical Therapy are skills that require an immense amount of hands-on experience to master, and so does business! Coaches and clinicians spend lots of time working on their clinical education and skills, without considering how they will build a business and more importantly, a business that can grow and sustain itself even during lean times, such as the recent COVID pandemic. In this episode of the PRS Podcast Dr. Rori Alter, PT discusses with her co-host, Dr. Alyssa Haveson, PT, how she built Progressive Rehab & Strength in her spare time while working a t...
2022-06-0444 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthThe PRS Sustainable Training Method: Bridging the Gap Between Barbell Training, Powerlifting, and RehabilitationIn the first episode of the Progressive Rehab & Strength Podcast, head PRS Clinical Coaches Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. Alyssa Haveson introduce themselves and the core principles of the PRS Sustainable Training Method. Uncover the key elements of the PRS Sustainable Training Method and understand how PRS integrates barbell training and powerlifting coaching with physical therapy to bridge the gap between rehabilitation and successful return to sport. Listen as Dr. Rori and Dr. Alyssa explain the importance of rating of perceived exertion (RPE), estimated 1 rep max (e1rm), tracking training fatigue, Athlete Identity, and...
2022-05-2849 minProgressive Rehab & StrengthWelcome to Progressive Rehab & Strength!Welcome to the Progressive Rehab and Strength podcast. Physical therapists, strength coaches, and powerlifters Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. Alyssa Haveson share their knowledge to help barbell athletes, coaches, and clinicians demystify strength training and create sustainability under the barbell and in business. https://www.progressiverehabandstrength.com
2022-05-1000 min