by Michael Silva
In the world of health and fitness, collaboration is key. Physical therapists (PTs) and personal trainers (I am using this term to describe all fitness/exercise professionals) often find themselves operating in parallel lanes, each striving to improve their clients' physical well-being and overall health. What if there was an intentional collaboration versus the “happen stance” connection via our clients seeking out care. I believe the possibilities are boundless and the outcomes will go through the roof when private practice PTs and private fitness studio owners intentionally and collectively align their efforts. I am concentrating on privately owned facilities because these owners tend to be passionate, open minded, and able to forge these types of relationships without the “red tape” of corporate infrastructure.
The synergy of such this partnership is redefining the healthcare continuum, delivering comprehensive care and forging meaningful connections within the community. Physical therapists are the gatekeepers of physical health and rehabilitation, and as we continue to be known as the “primary care” for musculoskeletal issues we are a huge resource for our colleagues on the fitness side of this continuum.
Although the lines are definitely blurred between PTs and trainers, dedicated roles and specialties are inherent. PTs generally help individuals recover from injuries, reduce pain, recover after surgeries, and return to functional independence. Personal trainers, on the other hand, take the individuals toward fitness goals and optimizing performance. Depending on the professional these roles get overlapped. As a seasoned and educated PT, I know our training, especially in advanced manual therapy skills and pain science sets us apart from trainers. This is a need we fill for the fitness world. I have seen the lack of advanced exercise prescription and fitness programming in some physical therapists, so they should be referring to trusted personal trainers to fill that gap when needed. We need to “stay in our lanes” and refer out when it is best for the client.
A gap often exists between discharge from physical therapy and the return to regular exercise or athletic performance. We often get insurance limitations that limit even the best “sports” physical therapist from progressing our clients. This gap is where collaboration can be transformative. Personal trainers can serve as the next step on a client’s health journey, continuing the work started by the PT. Similarly, PTs can provide trainers with insights into a client’s limitations, pain, and recovery goals, ensuring that the transition is both safe and effective for the client.
For private practice PTs and fitness studio owners, collaboration is more than a clinical opportunity—it’s a strategic business advantage which can ensure business success. These relationships can be forged in a unique way that may not be possible with large corporate companies. By partnering, we can increase our value, establish referral networks, share resources, and expand our client base. A PT clinic with a trusted personal trainer (in-house or in a network) can offer continuity that clients value, increasing retention and word-of-mouth referrals… VALUE ADD. Conversely, fitness studios that integrate or partner with PTs can attract clients seeking a more holistic and safe approach to fitness and have a trusted source to refer to when their clients need additional help…VALUE ADD.
Building this partnership requires open communication, shared goals, and mutual respect. If both parties are interested in collaborating make sure you experience the other’s services. Go be a client, see the facility, experience the client journey, and make sure the partner you are considering is at your level of exceptional service or higher! When the relationship is forged, tell your communities and celebrate the collaboration. Work together to promote each other and the amazing value you are providing. By embracing this partnership, we move closer to a future where care is not delivered in silos, but delivered through seamless, holistic, and truly client-centered networks. That’s a vision worth striving for—and one that benefits everyone involved.
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In Health,
Michael
About The Author
Michael started in the fitness world in 1995 and then became an orthopedic/sports medicine physical therapist in 1999. He was the president and founder of FOUNDATIONperformance Sports Medicine for 20 years before selling his practice and exiting successfully. They were a leading outpatient sports medicine practice in New England with three offices and in two states.
He is also the creator of RUNstrong®: A comprehensive conditioning program for runners and coaches (find out more about RUNstrong®). His expertise in the running world has allowed Michael to work with amazing athletes (including Olympians and world record holders) and travel to speak through lectures, clinics, and keynote speeches.
After exiting the clinical setting Michael’s mission is to be a resource for healthcare practice owners and entrepreneurs. Helping them thrive optimally in business is his mission. He is committed to empowering his clients with the tools and knowledge needed to exceed personal and business goals.
Connect with him Michael Silva:
Website - michaeljsilva.com
Free call - https://calendly.com/mjsconsult/30min
Link - Inquire about working together
Phone - 401-903-0139