Treat your PAIN, and PERFORM BETTER

We all have slightly different goals when it comes to working out. Maybe it’s to burn more calories so you can lose weight and feel great, or to build strength and endurance so you can finally conquer that mountain. Or maybe your goal is simply to stay pain-free while walking around the lake with your grandkids. Whatever your specific motivation, we all share one thing in common: we want to perform BETTER.

One of the biggest things that can hold us back is PAIN. Pain can come from many sources, but the number one cause is often soft tissue-related. In other words, tight muscles, tendons, and other "sliding surfaces" are restricting your body’s full range of motion. This leads to movement compensation, and over time, pain. If you want to take control of your progress and get the most out of your workouts, addressing soft tissue tightness on your own can be a game changer. That way, when it’s time to move—you’re ready to GET DOWN TO BUSINESS! Here are two of my favorite resources for managing pain caused by soft tissue issues:

Yoga Tune Up – “Pain and Stress Relief” Short VideosDespite the name, this isn’t your typical yoga class. You won’t be doing downward dogs or flowing sequences (though I do believe yoga can be a great tool after myofascial release). This site offers everything from quick, two-minute videos to full eight-hour trainings focused on self-massage techniques for the entire body. You can filter by body part to target the exact area that’s bothering you. From there, choose a short, budget-friendly video that walks you through practical, effective ways to relieve tension and discomfort.

Dr. Kelly Starrett – The Ready State & BooksIf you’re looking to improve mobility, reduce pain, or boost your athletic performance, Dr. Kelly Starrett's tools are truly invaluable. His website, The Ready State, includes powerful features like the Virtual Mobility Coach, which offers daily mobility exercises personalized to your body and routine. His "Fix Yourself" series tackles specific issues—like low back pain, plantar fasciitis, and shoulder pain—with targeted strategies that work.

For those who want a deeper understanding, I highly recommend his books:

• Becoming a Supple Leopard (2nd Edition): The Ultimate Guide to Resolving Pain, Preventing Injury, and Optimizing Athletic Performance– A clear, practical guide to fixing pain, preventing injury, and moving more efficiently. It’s packed with insights you can apply immediately, whether you’re a beginner or advanced athlete.
  

• Deskbound: Standing Up to a Sitting World – If you spend a lot of time sitting, this book is essential. It provides actionable strategies to reverse the effects of sedentary habits and improve posture and mobility.

  
  

Whether you’re training hard or just want to move pain-free in your daily life, Dr. Starrett’s work offers powerful tools to support your goals.

I also use the principles and techniques from these resources in my personal training sessions with clients. If you're interested in learning more or need help getting started, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation.

Hope these suggestions help. Now get rolling!