Stephanie Patek Stephanie Patek

Gratitude for Movement: Why Appreciating Your Body Improves Performance & Longevity

Gratitude for Movement: The Mindset That Fuels Performance & Longevity
Progress isn’t just measured in numbers — it’s felt in the freedom to move. At Living Well Physical Therapy & Performance, we believe that appreciating your body’s ability to move is one of the most powerful tools for better health, performance, and longevity.
Gratitude reduces stress, improves recovery, boosts motivation, and helps you train smarter — not just harder. By shifting from “I have to work out” to “I get to move,” you build a deeper connection with your body and sustain performance for life.
Discover how a simple gratitude practice can transform your workouts, your mindset, and your future movement.

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Stephanie Patek Stephanie Patek

🏃‍♀️ Trail Running: 101

Ready to trade pavement for adventure? Trail running challenges your body and mind in ways road running can’t — building strength, stability, and resilience with every step. In this Trail Running 101 guide, our performance PT team breaks down why trails are a game-changer, how to prep your body, essential gear, and smart progressions to stay injury-free. Whether you're just starting out or leveling up this fall, discover how to hit the trails with confidence and keep doing what you love, for life.

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Stephanie Patek Stephanie Patek

🥾 Top 5 Hiking Trails Around MKE

Looking to stay active and enjoy the beauty of fall in Wisconsin? This guide from LWPT highlights five top hiking trails around Milwaukee that combine scenic views with physical and mental health benefits. Whether you're seeking a challenging climb or a peaceful walk, these PT-approved trails offer the perfect way to move well, feel great, and embrace the season outdoors.

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Stephanie Patek Stephanie Patek

🍂 Running Safe This Fall: A Doctor of Physical Therapy’s Tips for Wisconsin Runners

Fall is a great time to run in Wisconsin, but changing weather and tricky terrain can increase injury risk. Living Well Physical Therapy recommends warming up properly, dressing in layers with reflective gear, watching for slippery surfaces, staying hydrated, and doing regular strength and mobility work. Most importantly, listen to your body — early action on pain can prevent long-term issues.

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Stephanie Patek Stephanie Patek

Trail-Ready: How to Prepare Your Body for Fall Hiking Adventures

Get your body trail-ready this fall! 🍂 At Living Well Physical Therapy & Performance, we help hikers and outdoor enthusiasts build strength, improve mobility, and boost endurance so you can hike farther, feel stronger, and enjoy every step of your adventures — all while preventing pain and injury.

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Stephanie Patek Stephanie Patek

Balancing Sports, School, and Recovery: Avoiding Burnout in Student-Athletes

Being a student-athlete is rewarding — but balancing practices, games, classes, and life can lead to physical and mental burnout if recovery is overlooked. At Living Well Physical Therapy & Performance, we help athletes stay healthy, strong, and motivated by focusing on proper training balance, time management, mental well-being, and recovery strategies. With the right plan, you can perform at your best, prevent injuries, and enjoy your sport for years to come.

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Stephanie Patek Stephanie Patek

Strength Training for Teen Athletes: Safe, Smart, and Sport-Specific

Strength training is not only safe for teen athletes—it’s one of the best ways to improve performance and prevent injuries. At Living Well Physical Therapy & Performance, we focus on teaching proper form, age-appropriate progressions, and sport-specific exercises to keep athletes healthy and strong. From soccer players to swimmers, strength training builds resilience, confidence, and long-term success on and off the field.

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