Episode 12: A PT's Perspective on Endurance Athletes with Neil MacKenzie, PT, DPT, OCS

This week, we're bringing in one of our favorite experts to talk all things recovery, strength training, injury prevention, and injury rehabilitation. Neil MacKenzie is a PT, DPT, and OCS based at ⁠Cioffredi & Associates Physical Therapy⁠ here in the Upper Valley. Neil has been an Endurance Drive athlete for two years (and is a 2x Ironman finisher!), so he understands the unique needs and perspective of endurance athletes in his practice. We also recap some fun coaching and training insights on motivation, intentions, weight and performance, programmed Garmin workouts, and endurance training as a form of counter-culture. This is a can't-miss episode!

Training & Coaching Insights: 

“Motivation chips!”

Thoughts on the myth of ‘race weight’ / leanness.

Thoughts on the intention of the workout.

Thoughts on programmed workouts in Garmin.

Thoughts on training as a counter-cultural act.

Asking yourself what you really want to get out of sport.

Q & A with Neil:

  • Tell us your story! Background as a PT and endurance athlete?

  • What injuries or challenges do you see as most common in endurance athletes?

  • Top mistakes you see endurance athletes making?

  • How should endurance athletes strength train?

  • Recommended warm-up routine? Cool-down?

  • What should strength look like for injury prevention for endurance athletes? 

  • What other advice do you have on supporting recovery? Fueling? Sleep? De-stressing?

  • What devices or gear should every athlete have? Lacrosse ball, bands, Norma-tecs… what’s worth the money? 

  • Thoughts on gait analysis and bike fitting?  

  • Thoughts on body work? Massage, ART, cupping, etc.? 

  • Returning to activity after injury -- what is your protocol? 

  • When should someone see a PT? Do you have to be injured? Can a PT be part of a preventative wellness program?

  • Neil’s gear pick of the week: Get multiple pairs of shoes!