Coach Em Up Podcast Why Metabolic Health Is The Key to Pain-Free Training with DR KATIE DABROWSKI | Ep. 104
Feb 24, 2026
Dr Katie Dabrowski, physical therapist and founder of Old Bull Athletics, blends strength, performance, and rehab. She connects metabolic health to musculoskeletal pain. Short takes on why cardio helps tendon and tissue health. Practical tips for adding aerobic work into rehab. Discussion on coaching mindset, pattern recognition, and reducing fear around movement.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Co-create Feasible Conditioning Goals
- Co-create realistic, sustainable cardio/nutrition plans by asking about schedule constraints and starting with short, feasible bouts.
- Katie adjusts expectations when clients can only manage 1 session/week instead of prescribing unattainable programs.
Pilates Is An On-Ramp Not A Replacement For Load
- Pilates and other low-load modalities can be a valuable on-ramp but hit a physiological ceiling for bone density and muscle mass.
- Katie recommends adding resistance/load if long-term bone and strength gains are the goal.
Find Patterns To Reduce Pain Anxiety
- Pattern recognition of activities that provoke pain gives concrete, actionable hypotheses and reduces patients' sense of being 'out of control.'
- Katie uses examples like deep squats, car seats, and gardening to link shared mechanics (stretch+load) to symptoms.