In today’s episode, Dr. Marie Whitt, DPT, joins us to dive deep into the importance of movement, even after injury. We challenge the common advice to stop moving when pain strikes, emphasizing how the right kind of gentle movement can be the key to recovery. Marie shares her expertise on building strength for runners, reframing rehab as a training opportunity, and the role of breath work in managing pain and calming the nervous system.

We chat about the impact of strength training for overall health, longevity, and injury prevention, especially for runners, and why our bodies are designed to move and why staying still can lead to more pain and setbacks. Whether you’re an athlete, a new runner, gen pop who doesn’t run at all, or someone looking to maintain mobility as you age, this episode offers valuable insights into how to stay active and healthy.

“When you stop moving, your body stops remembering how to move. Gentle movement is what takes away the pain.”

- Dr. Marie Whitt

“You are stronger than you give yourself credit for. Let’s teach your brain how strong you are.”

- Dr. Marie Whitt

This week on Here’s the Deal:

• Why the “stop moving when in pain” advice can be counterproductive
• Understanding pain as a signal, not a stop sign for movement
• The role of strength training in improving running performance and reducing injuries
• How breath work can help calm the nervous system and manage chronic pain
• The importance of reframing rehab as a form of training, not a setback
• The impact of strength training on aging well and maintaining bone density
• Why basic, consistent movement is more effective than relying on recovery gadgets and supplements

Connect with Dr. Marie Whitt:

• Dr. Whitt Fit on Instagram
• Dr. Whitt on YouTube
• Dr. Whitt Fit Dare to Train Differently Blog
• Dare to Train Differently Strength Guide

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck, where we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

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