Athletico Health Resources

So after attending a running event expo, you received an exercise band in your “swag” bag from Athletico. You have seen them before or even have a few collecting dust in your closet – but what is the purpose of this yellow or green piece of elastic? What are the physical benefits to you and why use one? (more…)

Editor’s note: The following blog was originally posted on Triathlon & Multisport Magazine. You can follow them on Twitter @trimultimag. Travis Orth is a Physical Therapist at Athletico Willowbrook.

Triathlon is a sport that rewards hard work. And while we can all strive to be the best we can be, 99.9 per cent of us will never enjoy the view from the top step of the podium at a major endurance race. Why is this may have something to do with our genetics. Dr. Travis Orth sheds some light on recent research into a number of genes that may affect endurance performance. (more…)

Today’s blog post is written by guest blogger Sean Hassett, PT, DPT at Athletico Andersonville

You just ran 12 miles, but this was not your typical 12 mile run. This was 12 miles of running up and down hills, climbing up and over walls, hanging on for dear life at some point, jumping over logs, carrying logs, plunging in for a deep cold ice bath, and of course getting really muddy. You have just completed a Mud Run and Obstacle Race. Congratulations!

At the end of the race such as Tough Mudder, you have received your headband, your T-shirt saying you survived, and had your celebratory beer (21 and older) with your fellow racers, now what? It is time to start the recovery process as this is not your normal race. (more…)

The rotator cuff is responsible for allowing your shoulder to move in multiple directions. The rotator cuff is responsible for internally, externally, and abducting the shoulder on the humerus or major bone that forms the arm. These muscles play a major role in moving the entire complex of the shoulder. (more…)

Today’s blog post is written by guest blogger Jennifer Short, PT at Athletico Garfield Ridge/Midway

Congratulations! You are registered for a Marathon, but now what? Running 26.2 miles at once seems daunting but with a plan and dedication you can accomplish this goal. Here are 5 tips to get you off and running on the right foot: (more…)

One factor that athletic trainers and physical therapists look at when assessing knee injury risk is the reliance someone has between 3 groups of muscles – the quadriceps (quads), glutes, and hamstrings. Here’s a quick rundown of what these muscle groups all do: (more…)

Today’s blog post is written by guest blogger, Judy Micek, OT at Athletico Bolingbrook.

Athletico continues to celebrate Occupational Therapy month by sharing more gardening tips for you to use this spring. Continue to enjoy time in the garden by using new tools or learning a new routine after gardening. (more…)

Spring is in the Air! After a harsh winter, spring has finally sprung and the official start to the Chicago running season has begun with the completion of the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle this past weekend. Were you out there among the thousands running on Sunday? Were you standing on the sidelines cheering on the runners thinking to yourself, “I want that to be me…”  that CAN be you. Follow these basic tips to help you complete your first running road race. (more…)