Why Strength Training Is Important for Runners by Nóirín Ní Chasaide APA Physiotherapist

When most people think of training for running, the first things that come to mind are logging kilometres, interval sessions, and maybe some stretching. But one of the most powerful ways to improve running performance, reduce injury risk, and support long-term health is strength training.

Below, we’ll explore why strength training matters for runners—and what the science says.

1. Injury Prevention

Running is a repetitive, high-impact activity. Each step can load your joints and muscles with forces of 2–3 times your body weight. Without adequate muscular support, this load can overwhelm tissues and can lead to overuse injuries such as shin splints, runner’s knee, or tendon issues.

Read More
Stuart McKayComment
From a Physiotherapist’s Perspective: Understanding Ankle Sprains (and Why You Shouldn’t “Walk It Off”). By Megan Schneider Senior APA Physiotherapist

Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries we see in clinical practice—and they’re also one of the most underestimated. Whether it happens during a sports match, a hike, or simply stepping awkwardly off a curb, a sprained ankle can range from mildly inconvenient to seriously debilitating.

As physiotherapists, our goal is to not only treat ankle sprains but also to shift the common mindset around them. So let’s talk about what’s really going on when you “roll your ankle” and why proper rehab is crucial for long-term recovery and injury prevention.

Read More
Stuart McKayComment
When Should I See a Women's Health Physiotherapist After Having a Baby? By Kathryn Melvin Women's Health APA Physiotherapist

Bringing a new life into the world is a monumental experience—but it’s also one of the most physically demanding journeys a woman can go through. Whether you’ve had a vaginal delivery or a caesarean section, your body undergoes profound changes during pregnancy and childbirth. These changes often affect your pelvic floor muscles, abdominal wall, posture, and even breathing mechanics.

Seeking advice from a women’s health physio can provide a safe, empowering space designed to support you—not just back to “normal”—but toward thriving in your new chapter of motherhood.

Read More
Stuart McKayComment
Meniscus Surgery Recovery: What Is It and What Does Recovery Look Like? By Mark Corry APA Physiotherapist

Whether you're chasing a ball on the pitch or just want to walk the dog without worrying about your knee, recovering from meniscus surgery takes the right approach.

A recent expert agreement between leading physios and surgeons from Europe and the US has laid out clear guidance on how to return safely to sport, work, or everyday life after meniscus surgery. Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, this is about getting you back to what matters most — with confidence.

Read More
Stuart McKayComment
ACL Injuries Across the Lifespan: Age and Gender Differences from a Physiotherapist’s Perspective by Bill Kelly APA Physiotherapist

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most common and serious injuries in athletes and active individuals. As a physiotherapist, I frequently work with patients of all ages recovering from ACL tears, and one thing that stands out is how these injuries differ between age groups and genders. Understanding these differences can significantly influence prevention strategies, rehabilitation protocols, and return-to-sport timelines.

Read More
Stuart McKayComment
Bone Stress Injuries: What They Are and How to Prevent Them by Nóirín Ní Chasaide APA Physiotherapist

Bone stress injuries (BSIs) are a common and often misunderstood cause of pain—especially in runners, dancers, and active individuals who's sports and activities put impact through the bones. Although impact in general is good for your bones, when done incorrectly it can lead to a BSI.  

Whether you're training for a marathon, city to surf, a couch to 5k or simply ramping up your walking routine, it’s important to understand the warning signs of a BSI and how to manage them early. 

Read More
Stuart McKayComment
What is Hyrox and is it good for me? By Megan Schneider Senior APA Physiotherapist

It seems like everyone I talk to lately is doing a Hyrox, and if you’re like me and had no idea what this is and what it involves, I’ve done the hard work to break it down so you don’t have to.

So let’s talk about what Hyrox is, what benefits it may have for you and what considerations you should have if you are think about or currently completing training for a Hyrox. Starting with the name, Hyrox stands for ‘Hybrid Rockstar’, which indicates a hybrid style of both strength and endurance training in somewhat of a HIIT style.

Read More
Stuart McKayComment
Hormones, Exercise, and the Menstrual Cycle: Optimising Training for Female Athletes by Kathryn Melvin Women's Health APA Physiotherapist

Introduction

The menstrual cycle plays a crucial role in female physiology, influencing energy levels, muscle recovery, and overall athletic performance. Understanding how hormonal fluctuations affect exercise can help women optimise their training, reduce injury risk, and enhance performance. This blog post outlines the menstrual cycle phases, their impact on exercise, and evidence-based strategies for training throughout the cycle.

The Menstrual Cycle: Phases and Hormonal Influence

The menstrual cycle consists of four key phases, each characterised by distinct hormonal changes that influence physical performance and recovery.

Read More
Stuart McKayComment