As physical therapists, we’re here to help when you get injured from playing a sport, whether it’s your aspiration to go pro or you just got a little too competitive with your friends. But we’re not just here to fix things that go wrong. In fact, many of our team members are athletes and fitness enthusiasts themselves, with an inner drive and the technical training to help you set new PRs and get more out of your game.
Why do athletic training with a physical therapist?
There are a few key differences between the types of training your fitness coach at the gym goes through and what our certified physical therapists have accomplished. Mainly, our physical therapists often pursue dedicated certifications in athletic training like CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) or sport-specific programs that allow them to provide pro-tier treatments, advice, and training plans for you.
And no matter their personal interests or specific certifications, physical therapists are equipped to provide comprehensive training plans that consider your unique anatomy, past injuries, and long-term goals.
Benefits of sports performance training
Seeing a physical therapist for sports performance training offers numerous advantages over other non-sport-specific trainers, including:
- Injury prevention: Physical therapists focus on strengthening the muscles and joints most susceptible to injury, reducing the likelihood of strains, sprains, and other common sports-related injuries.
- Enhanced performance: With a tailored training regimen, athletes can improve their speed, agility, strength, and endurance, leading to better performance on the field or court.
- Faster recovery: In the event of an injury, physical therapists utilize targeted rehabilitation techniques to facilitate a quicker and more complete recovery. We might even be able to offer free injury screenings when you sense something might be off.
- Personalized attention: Each session is customized to address your unique needs, ensuring that you receive the most effective training possible.
- Holistic approach: Physical therapists consider all aspects of your health and lifestyle, providing guidance on nutrition, other hobbies, and mental wellness to support optimal athletic performance.
What to expect from your sports physical therapy appointment
When you schedule an appointment for sports performance training, you can expect a thorough and comprehensive experience designed to address your unique needs and goals. Here’s what a general sports performance training plan might look like:
- Initial assessment: The first step in your sports physical therapy appointment is a detailed assessment of your current fitness level, athletic goals, and any existing injuries or limitations. Your therapist will take the time to listen to your concerns and evaluate your movement patterns to identify areas for improvement.
- Customized training plan: Based on the assessment, your therapist will develop a personalized training plan that targets specific areas for enhancement. This plan will include exercises and drills designed to build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance overall performance.
- Hands-on guidance: Throughout each session, your therapist will provide hands-on guidance and support to ensure you perform each exercise correctly and safely. They will monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your training plan to keep you on track towards achieving your athletic goals.
- Education and support: In addition to providing physical training, your therapist will educate you on injury prevention strategies, proper nutrition, and recovery techniques to support your long-term success as an athlete. They will address any questions or concerns you may have, offering valuable insights and encouragement along the way.
Get started with sport-specific physical therapy today
Sports performance training with a physical therapist offers a comprehensive approach to enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries. If you’re curious about how a holistic, injury-prevention approach can help you reach your goals sustainably, don’t hesitate to contact our team by calling a nearby clinic location or requesting a sports performance appointment online today.
