Why Your Chiropractor, Physio and PT Should All Be on the Same Page

Why Your Chiropractor, Physio and PT Should All Be on the Same Page

 

When you’re recovering from injury or managing chronic pain, navigating between your chiropractor, physiotherapist, and personal trainer can feel like juggling three different opinions - and sometimes, it is. But at CGPT in Hawthorn, we believe there’s a better way: collaboration.

 

Your body is one integrated system. So why treat it in isolated silos?

 

Whether you’re working through back pain, post-surgical rehab, or a long-standing injury that’s been holding you back for years, your recovery and progress improve dramatically when your allied health providers and training team communicate and align on your goals.

 

Here’s why this holistic, team-based approach matters, and how we make it happen at CGPT.

 

Injury Rehab Is Not a One-Person Job

 

If you've ever felt like you’re bouncing between treatment rooms, receiving different advice from each professional, you’re not alone. It’s incredibly common, and incredibly frustrating.

 

The problem isn’t your physio, your chiro, or your trainer individually. It’s the lack of integrated care.

 

According to the Australian Journal of General Practice, patient outcomes significantly improve when allied health professionals and exercise providers share care plans and maintain consistent communication around injury rehab and functional recovery[^1].

 

That’s why at CGPT, we work in tandem with your physiotherapist, chiropractor, or osteopath from day one. Your recovery plan doesn’t live in isolation - it’s woven directly into your strength training.

 

Why Collaboration Speeds Up Recovery

 

Let’s break down why having your physio and trainer on the same page helps:

 

1. You Avoid Conflicting Advice

 

There’s nothing worse than hearing “don’t do squats” from your chiro, while your PT encourages them. At CGPT, we can liaise directly with your health provider to understand your specific diagnosis, contraindications, and treatment goals.

 

This means we’re not guessing - we’re building your training program with accurate, up-to-date clinical input.

 

2. You Keep Moving (Safely)

 

Too often, people drop out of exercise entirely after an injury. But movement is medicine when done properly.

 

A review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that early, guided return-to-strength training accelerates healing, reduces re-injury rates, and supports long-term recovery[^2].

 

We’ll adjust your plan based on what your physio is treating - whether that means reducing range of motion, modifying tempo, or focusing on adjacent muscle groups so you can keep progressing even while you recover.

 

3. You Build Strength Where It Matters

 

Your physio might help reduce pain and improve joint mobility, but long-term resilience is built in the gym. That’s where we come in.

 

At CGPT, we don’t just get you back to baseline, we build you beyond it. Our post-rehab strength programs are designed to rebuild not only the injured area but also the surrounding systems that support it.

 

How CGPT Integrates With Your Allied Health Team

 

Here’s how we make this seamless:

 

• Direct Communication

With your permission, we reach out to your physio or chiro to get a clear handover - what’s healing, what’s not allowed, and what they recommend.

 

• Shared Programming

Your trainer will design your program around the guidelines set by your allied health provider. This may include rehab-style movements, tempo-controlled exercises, or load management strategies.

 

• Onsite Support

In some cases, we invite your physio to visit the gym for an in-person assessment. This allows them to see you in action and helps us all agree on the next progression.

 

• Regular Updates

We check in with your provider at key milestones or if anything changes in your condition. This means less guesswork and better decision-making across the board.

 

Real Strength Comes From Collaboration

 

Our trainers aren’t just coaches - they’re movement specialists who understand how pain, mobility, strength, and mindset work together. And at CGPT, every trainer takes pride in adapting programs to suit where you are right now, while supporting where you’re headed.

 

Let’s meet the team who make that happen:

 

·       Andrea, our founder, brings years of hands-on experience in tailoring strength programs for post-rehab clients, especially women navigating complex life stages like menopause or post-partum recovery.

·       Tim is known for his meticulous attention to form and detail, making him a go-to for clients returning from injury or surgery.

·       Laurence brings a biomechanics-first approach, working closely with physios and chiros to ensure every rep is serving your long-term mobility and strength goals.

·       James has helped numerous clients safely return to sport and gym training after injuries, with a calm and supportive coaching style.

·       Sophie is passionate about making movement feel safe and empowering again especially for clients who’ve previously feared re-injury.

·       Jon has a deep understanding of chronic pain and works with clients who need an intelligent, progressive approach to rebuilding capacity.

·       Mia combines her boxing and athletic background with movement modification expertise to build both confidence and capability post-injury.

·       Adam excels in helping people rediscover their strength after long layoffs, using intelligent, adaptable programming that builds both trust and physical results.

 

Who This Is For

 

You don’t have to be in active pain to benefit from integrated care. Our approach is ideal for:

 

·       People recovering from recent injuries or surgery

·       Clients with long-term joint or muscle issues

·       Anyone working with a physio, osteo or chiro

·       Office workers with repetitive strain injuries or postural pain

·       People returning to training after time away from the gym

 

Our Post-Rehab Strength Training Focus

 

At CGPT, we specialise in strength training that bridges the gap between rehab and performance. Our post-rehab training:

 

·       Prioritises controlled, pain-free movement

·       Restores range of motion and functional strength

·       Progresses load gradually and safely

·       Avoids aggravating patterns or overloading weak links

·       Builds confidence, capability, and autonomy

 

Whether you’re coming off a sprained ankle or managing chronic lower back pain, we work within your limits, then gradually expand them.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Strength training isn’t just about lifting heavy - it’s about lifting smart. And the smartest results come when your whole team is aligned.

 

If you’re managing an injury or navigating recovery, don’t do it alone. Let CGPT work alongside your physio or chiro to create a training plan that builds your strength, supports your recovery, and gives you the confidence to move well without fear.

 

Book a Consultation

 

If you’re working with a physio, chiropractor or osteopath and want to ensure your training supports your recovery, reach out today. We’re more than happy to coordinate directly with your provider.

 

Book a consultation with a CGPT trainer to discuss your needs
www.chrisgympt.com
andrea@chrisgympt.com

 

Bibliography

 

1.     Australian Journal of General Practice. (2019). Coordinated care between general practice and allied health: Barriers and enablers. https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2019/june/coordinated-care-between-general-practice-and-allied

2.     British Journal of Sports Medicine. (2016). Exercise for injury recovery: a systematic review. https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/50/20/1239

3.     Hides, J.A., et al. (2001). Long-term effects of specific stabilising exercises for first-episode low back pain. Spine.

4.     Cook, G., Burton, L., Hoogenboom, B. (2006). Pre-participation screening: The use of fundamental movements as an assessment of function. North American Journal of Sports Physical Therapy.

 

Strength Training for Busy Professionals: The 3-Session-a-Week Strategy That Delivers Serious Results

February 16, 2025
Strength Training for Busy Professionals: The 3-Session-a-Week Strategy That Delivers Serious Results The 3-Session Strategy That Works: How Time-Poor Professionals Can Still Get Strong, Lean and Energised If your Google Calendar is more packed than your gym bag, you’re not alone. For Melbourne professionals juggling careers, family, and everything in between, the idea of squeezing in long workouts five days a week just isn’t realistic. And the good news? You don’t need to train like a full-time athlete to see serious results. At Chris’ Gym in Hawthorn, we specialise in working with time-poor, high-performing clients - many of whom are professionals who only have three hours a week to spare. That’s why our personal training model is built around maximising outcomes in minimal time, with targeted, effective sessions that fit your schedule and your goals. Let’s break down how it works and why three focused sessions per week might be exactly what you need. Why Less Can Be More: The Science Behind 3 Strength Sessions a Week When it comes to building strength, boosting energy, and improving body composition, consistency trumps volume. A well-designed training program that includes three 60-minute sessions per week can: · Build and maintain lean muscle mass · Improve metabolic rate and fat-burning efficiency · Support mental clarity and stress resilience · Increase joint strength and mobility · Reduce injury risk especially for sedentary professionals · Improve posture, confidence, and energy levels Scientific research supports this too. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that individuals training three days per week saw similar strength gains to those training more frequently - as long as intensity and progression were properly managed (1). And that’s exactly where a great personal trainer comes in. Efficiency Over Exhaustion: What a CGPT Session Looks Like We’re not here to smash you into the ground and leave you crawling out the door. At CGPT, our approach is strategic, not punishing. Each 60-minute session is built around your personal goals, past injuries, and current capacity. A typical session might include: · Dynamic warm-up and mobility to activate key muscle groups and prep the nervous system · Strength block focused on compound lifts, unilateral movements, and work to build muscle and resilience · Accessory work targeting imbalances, postural needs or specific goals (e.g. glute strength, shoulder stability) · Core and conditioning finisher - short, sharp, and functional · Cool-down or guided recovery for longevity and injury prevention Most importantly, you walk out of the gym feeling better than when you walked in - clearer head, stronger body, and less stress weighing you down. The Power of Periodisation (Without the Fancy Charts) If you’re training three times a week, each session needs to serve a purpose. That’s why all CGPT programs are periodised - meaning they follow a logical, progressive structure. Rather than randomly mixing things up or repeating the same full-body session over and over, we carefully sequence your training across the week. For example: · Day 1: Lower body strength training with a focus on balance and core control · Day 2: Upper body strength paired with guided mobility to support posture and ease of movement · Day 3: Full body session designed to improve everyday strength, stamina and confidence This type of structure ensures that all major muscle groups are being trained regularly and with appropriate recovery while also keeping sessions mentally engaging and physically rewarding. And yes, we’ll tailor this for your needs - whether that’s postural correction, hypertrophy, bone density, back rehab, or just more energy for the school run. Designed for Your Diary: Why Busy People Thrive at CGPT One of the most common things we hear from new clients is: “I just need something that fits into my week - and actually works.” At CGPT, we get it. That’s why: · Sessions are booked at the same time each week (just like a meeting) · All trainers run on time, every time · You don’t need to plan your own workouts - we do it for you · You train in a calm, clean, focused environment (no packed group classes, no waiting for machines, no TikTok chaos) Many of our clients tell us their CGPT sessions are the most consistent part of their week - and the one thing they never cancel. Why? Because they feel stronger, clearer, and more capable in every other part of their life because of it. What the Trainers Say We asked a few of the CGPT trainers how they structure programs for busy professionals - here’s what they had to say: Andrea Baylis (Owner/Trainer): “Most of our clients have big jobs, big lives, and very little free time. So our job is to make sure their training delivers maximum value - physically, mentally, and emotionally.” Tim Walker (Strength Specialist): “With three sessions a week, we focus on building strength that supports longevity - glutes, core, posterior chain - but also keep the intensity tailored so people leave energised, not wrecked.” Sophie O’Donoghue (Rehab & Return-to-Exercise): “Many of my clients are postnatal or returning to training after time off. Three sessions a week is a great sweet spot for building confidence and creating a healthy, sustainable rhythm.” James Shaw (Performance & Strength): “The real value of personal training is in how we adapt it to your lifestyle. You don’t need to train five days a week to be strong. You just need the right three.” 3 Sessions. 1 Big Impact. Zero Wasted Time. If you’ve been putting off strength training because you feel like you can’t do it properly without dedicating half your life to the gym - think again. With expert guidance, smart programming, and a supportive environment, three hours a week is all it takes to: · Reclaim your strength and energy · Improve posture and reduce injury risk · Build lean muscle and boost metabolism · Elevate your performance in every area of life Whether you’re a lawyer, accountant, founder, or full-time working parent - this approach works. Book Your Free Consultation Not sure where to begin? Start with a no-pressure consultation and movement screen. We’ll show you how we can fit your training around your schedule - not the other way around. Come and see why so many busy professionals in Hawthorn are choosing CGPT as the smartest investment in their health. Check out our website www.chrisgympt.com or email andrea@chrisgympt.com to get started. References 1. Schoenfeld, B.J., Grgic, J., Ogborn, D., Krieger, J.W. (2022). Strength and hypertrophy adaptations between low- vs. high-load resistance training: A meta-analysis. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 36(2), 517–526. 2. Paoli, A., Moro, T., Bianco, A. (2015). Lift weights to fight overweight. Clinical Physiology and Functional Imaging, 35(1), 1–6. 3. Steele, J., Fisher, J., Skivington, M., et al. (2017). A higher effort-based paradigm in resistance training. Frontiers in Physiology, 8, 253. 4. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2021). Physical activity across the life stages. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au

Your 40s Are Not Too Late: Why Midlife Is the Best Time to Start Strength Training

February 9, 2025
Your 40s Are Not Too Late: Why Midlife Is the Best Time to Start Strength Training You’ve probably heard the myth: “Once you hit your 40s, it’s too late to start strength training.” Here at Chris’ Gym in Hawthorn, we’re here to tell you it’s not just possible to start strength training in your 40s – it’s actually the perfect time. In your 40s, your body is at a unique crossroads. You’ve built years of experience and resilience, but natural changes in muscle mass, metabolism and hormone levels mean your workouts need a fresh approach. That’s why strength training isn’t just about looking good – it’s about feeling strong, staying healthy, and setting yourself up for a more active future. Why Muscle Matters More After 40 From around the age of 30, our bodies start losing muscle mass at a rate of 3–8% per decade – a process called sarcopenia (Mitchell et al., 2012). This loss accelerates after 40, and if left unchecked, it can impact everything from posture and bone health to metabolism and daily energy. Strength training slows this decline and can even reverse it. Lifting weights stimulates muscle protein synthesis – the process your body uses to rebuild and strengthen muscle fibres. In fact, a study in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity (Hunter et al., 2016) showed that older adults who started resistance training increased their muscle mass and functional strength significantly within just a few months. Midlife Myths – Busted One of the biggest barriers for people in their 40s is the feeling that “it’s too late to start.” But the science says otherwise. A 2020 meta-analysis in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that adults aged 40–65 respond just as well to strength training as younger adults – especially when training is adapted to their needs (Keogh et al., 2020). Here’s another myth we love to bust at CGPT: that strength training is only for bodybuilders or athletes. The truth? In your 40s, strength training is about preserving your independence, protecting your joints and keeping you feeling vital – not about maxing out your deadlift. Why Your 40s Are the Perfect Time If you’re in your 40s, you’re probably balancing work, family and personal commitments. But your health and energy are more important than ever – and strength training is your best tool to preserve them. Here’s why: Bone Density: Strength training helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis by promoting stronger bones (Kohrt et al., 2004). Hormonal Support: Lifting weights boosts testosterone and growth hormone levels, helping maintain lean muscle and metabolic health (Kraemer et al., 1999). Metabolic Health: Muscle tissue burns more calories at rest than fat, making strength training a secret weapon for managing weight and blood sugar (Willis et al., 2012). Mental Resilience: Resistance exercise has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression (Gordon et al., 2018). How We Tailor Strength Training for 40–55-Year-Olds at CGPT At Chris’ Gym, we know one-size-fits-all programs don’t work – especially for midlife clients. Our trainers, including Tim, Andrea, Laurence, James, Sophie, Jon, Mia and Adam, bring a diverse set of skills and experience to create a welcoming and supportive environment. Here’s how we make sure you feel safe and supported: Movement Screening: We start every client with a movement assessment to identify strengths, imbalances and any past injuries that need attention. Progressive Programming: We build workouts that evolve as you do – starting with foundational strength and adding intensity only when you’re ready. Joint-Friendly Exercises: We focus on exercises that build stability and protect your joints – like squats, rows, and hip hinges – while avoiding high-impact movements that aren’t necessary. Lifestyle Integration: We recognise that your training has to work with your busy life – not against it. That’s why we create programs you can stick to, without feeling overwhelmed. Success Stories to Inspire You We’ve seen countless midlife clients transform their bodies and their confidence through strength training. Like the dad who thought he’d never see his abs again – until he hit his 40s and realised the power of weight training. Or the mum who wanted to keep up with her kids and found herself feeling stronger and more energised than she did in her 20s. Owner and Head Trainer, Andrea, often says: “The biggest surprise for most of my clients is realising how capable they are. They come in thinking it’s too late – and end up feeling younger and more alive than ever.” Getting Started If you’re curious but a little intimidated, that’s normal! Starting strength training in your 40s doesn’t mean jumping straight into barbells. At CGPT, we meet you exactly where you are. Step 1: Book an initial consultation with one of our expert trainers. Step 2: Let’s chat about your goals, your lifestyle, and what’s held you back before. Step 3: We’ll create a tailored program that challenges you, without overwhelming you. And remember, you’re never too old to start – or too young to take control of your health. Your Strongest Years Are Still Ahead Your 40s can be a time of incredible growth and vitality. With the right guidance and the power of strength training, you can build muscle, boost your metabolism, and feel more alive than ever. Ready to get started? Let’s make your 40s the strongest, healthiest years yet. Learn more about our tailored personal training programs on our website – or meet our trainers here: www.chrisgympt.com/our-trainers . Want to chat? Email andrea@chrisgympt.com – we’d love to help you feel your best. References: · Hunter, G. R., et al. (2016). Resistance training increases muscular strength and physical function in adults aged 40–65. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 24(2), 237–243. · Keogh, J. W. L., et al. (2020). Age-related differences in response to resistance training: A meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 54(14), 849–857. · Kohrt, W. M., et al. (2004). Maintenance of bone mass and reduction in fracture risk through resistance exercise. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, 19(2), 294–300. · Kraemer, W. J., et al. (1999). Hormonal responses to resistance exercise and training. Sports Medicine, 27(2), 73–87. · Mitchell, W. K., et al. (2012). Sarcopenia and age-related muscle loss. Age and Ageing, 41(2), 230–238. · Willis, L. H., et al. (2012). Strength training and metabolic health in adults. Obesity, 20(2), 364–370. · Gordon, B. R., et al. (2018). Resistance exercise training for anxiety and depression. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 102, 239–245.

Not a “Gym Person”? Why Strength Training Might Be the Thing That Changes Your Mind

January 26, 2025
Not a “Gym Person”? Why Strength Training Might Be the Thing That Changes Your Mind If the phrase “I’m not a gym person” has ever crossed your lips, you’re not alone. Maybe it’s the thought of walking into a loud, crowded gym. Maybe it’s not knowing what to do with the equipment. Maybe it’s the feeling that everyone else already knows what they’re doing and you’re somehow late to the party. We get it. At CGPT in Hawthorn, we meet people like you every day. People who’ve sworn off gyms, who’ve had a bad experience in the past, or who never imagined they’d enjoy strength training. But something shifts when they walk through our doors. And by the time they leave? They’re saying things like: “I can’t believe I’m saying this but I actually look forward to coming here.” Let’s talk about what makes that shift happen and why you might not be as far from being a “gym person” as you think. It’s Not About Loving the Gym. It’s About Loving How You Feel After. You don’t have to love kettlebells, barbells, or dumbbells. But what if you started loving what they do for you? Strength training is about so much more than lifting weights. It’s about improving your posture, increasing your energy, boosting your confidence, and feeling strong and steady in your body. It’s about noticing that the stairs aren’t so hard anymore, that you’re sleeping better, that your anxiety feels more manageable. And you don’t have to do it in a loud, crowded gym. In fact, at CGPT, it’s the exact opposite. The Anti-Gym Gym: What Makes CGPT Different If you’ve felt intimidated, awkward, or out of place in a gym before, we’re here to rewrite that story. A Private, Welcoming Space in the Heart of Hawthorn We’re not a commercial gym. No packed treadmills. No blaring music. CGPT is a private, personalised personal training studio where everyone is working one-on-one with a trainer, at their own pace, on a plan tailored specifically to them. No Judgment, No Comparison You won’t be surrounded by “fitness influencers” or groups of people trying to outdo each other. It’s just you and your trainer - focused on progress, not perfection. Our Trainers Are Here for You Every trainer at CGPT is handpicked for their ability to meet people where they’re at - physically and emotionally. Whether you’re walking in with zero gym experience or coming back after a long break, our team knows exactly how to make you feel comfortable, capable, and supported. Real Clients, Real Stories: From Sceptics to Regulars “I hadn’t stepped inside a gym in 20 years. I felt like I was too old and too far gone. But Andrea just smiled and said, ‘Let’s start with where you’re at.’ That was three years ago. Now I train twice a week and feel stronger than I did in my thirties.” – Sarah, 52 “The big gyms always felt like they weren’t made for people like me. I didn’t want to lose weight, I just wanted to feel good in my body again. James made that the focus from day one.” – Rohan, 39 “I used to think weights were only for athletes or bodybuilders. Laurence showed me how to lift for mobility, strength, and longevity. Now I can carry my grandkids without pain.” – Diane, 67 Why Strength Training is the Perfect Starting Point Unlike high-impact group fitness classes or endless cardio sessions, strength training is adaptable. You don’t have to be fit to start - you start to get fit. You don’t need to push to exhaustion. In fact, the goal is often the opposite. With the right guidance, you can: · Build muscle without bulk · Improve bone density and balance · Reduce stress and anxiety · Feel more in control of your health And the best part? It’s not about doing it hard. It’s about doing it right - with a trainer who understands your body, your mindset, and your goals. Meet the Team Who’ll Change the Way You See the Gym At CGPT, our trainers aren’t just skilled - they’re supportive, down-to-earth, and focused on helping you feel seen and heard. Here’s a glimpse at just a few of the faces behind the change: · Andrea , our owner and lead trainer, has a gift for helping clients reconnect with their strength - mentally and physically. · Tim brings quiet confidence and structure to each session, making it easy to feel at ease. · Sophie creates patient, progress-driven programs that focus on movement, not punishment. · Laurence combines physiotherapy insights with a clear, technical approach - perfect for injury rehab or anyone needing extra support. · James is all about making fitness fun again - especially if you've been avoiding it for years. · Mia brings boxing, basketball, and energy into the mix for clients who want to move and feel empowered. · Jon and Adam both focus on clear communication and steady, realistic progress - ideal for beginners who need structure and guidance without any of the overwhelm. Explore all their bios here . Ready to Try - Just Once? You don’t have to sign up on the spot. Come in for an initial consultation and a movement screen, and we’ll go from there. It’s a chance to get a feel for the space, meet your trainer, and see just how different strength training can be when it’s personalised, supportive, and designed for you. We’ll guide you through: · An initial chat about your goals (no jargon, no judgment) · A simple movement assessment · A strength session tailored to your current fitness and comfort level · Clear next steps - if you want them Final Thoughts: Maybe You’re More of a Gym Person Than You Think Here’s the truth: You don’t need to love the gym. You just need to love how you feel when you leave. Strength training isn’t about becoming someone else. It’s about becoming more you - fitter, stronger, more resilient, more confident. So if you’ve always said, “I’m not a gym person”... maybe it’s just because you haven’t found the right kind of gym yet. Want to dip your toe in? Reach out for a no-pressure intro session and see for yourself how personal, supportive, and effective strength training can be. We’re proudly based in Hawthorn, serving locals from Auburn Village to the Booroondara Farmers’ Market and beyond. Check out our website www.chrisgympt.com or contact Andrea directly at andrea@chrisgympt.com to get started.
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