Exercise prescription is a cornerstone of health and recovery, especially when applied by exercise physiologists who use science-based methods to promote physical and emotional well-being. At Empowered RX, exercise prescription goes beyond just workouts—it’s about understanding the unique needs of each person and designing a plan that fosters growth, recovery, and long-term health. Many of the videos and reels you'll see on our instagram highlight our group classes. These classes strive to build confidence and strength both inside and out.
Exercise Prescription is another service we offer for 1:1 Coaching that takes an individualized and evidence-based approach for women with special considerations or chronic illness. All Exercise Prescription is done by Owner and Exercise Physiologist, Leah Hantman.
What is Exercise Prescription?
Exercise prescription is the process of creating a tailored fitness program based on a person's individual health status, goals, and capabilities. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, exercise prescription takes into account various factors like medical history, current fitness level, psychological readiness, and lifestyle to create an optimal exercise regimen. This method is often used in therapeutic settings for recovery from injury, illness, or conditions such as eating disorders and mental health challenges.
The key components of exercise prescription include:
- Frequency: How often an individual should engage in exercise.
- Intensity: How hard they should work during the session.
- Time: How long each exercise session should last.
- Type: What kinds of exercises or movements are most appropriate (strength training, cardiovascular, mobility, etc.).
- Progression: How to gradually increase the difficulty or load as the individual grows stronger and more capable.
An exercise physiologist uses evidence-based guidelines to ensure that this process is both safe and effective from the lens of the clients lived experience and medical considerations. At Empowered RX, we go one step further by adding trauma-informed care and a compassionate approach to our programming.
How We Apply Exercise Prescription at Empowered RX
At Empowered RX, we believe that exercise should be empowering—not punishing. Our exercise prescription model is designed to help clients reconnect with their bodies in a positive, sustainable way. Here’s how we use exercise prescription to support healing, strength, and recovery:
Individualized Plans
We recognize that every person’s relationship with exercise is different. For some, exercise might have been a tool of control, punishment, or anxiety. For others, it might be part of their recovery journey, a way to rebuild trust in their body. Our exercise plans meet each client where they are, offering the right balance of challenge and care.
Graded Progression
We don’t believe in pushing people beyond their limits or expecting quick results. Our approach uses a graded exercise model, meaning we start with manageable, low-impact exercises and progressively increase the intensity and complexity as the client gains confidence and strength. This not only prevents injury but also helps clients feel safe and supported throughout their fitness journey.
Trauma-Informed Approach
For those recovering from eating disorders or trauma, exercise can feel overwhelming or triggering. Our coaches are trauma-informed, ensuring that our programs don’t just focus on physical progress but also respect the emotional needs of our clients. We provide a supportive environment where clients can reclaim their bodies and heal through movement without fear of judgment or pressure.
Focus on Holistic Health
Exercise is just one piece of the puzzle. At Empowered RX, we emphasize holistic health, meaning our programs support both physical and mental well-being. Exercise is a tool for fostering resilience, reducing stress, and improving self-esteem—not just for building muscle or losing weight.
Evidence-Based Methods
All of our exercise programs are rooted in science. We rely on evidence-based practices to ensure that our exercise prescriptions are safe, effective, and tailored to each client’s needs. We work closely with clients to monitor their progress and make adjustments as needed, ensuring that their exercise routine evolves with them.
Empowering Through Movement
Exercise should feel like a tool for empowerment, not a burden. At Empowered RX, our goal is to provide clients with the skills and confidence to reconnect with their bodies, build strength, and foster long-term health in a compassionate, sustainable way. By using exercise prescription as a therapeutic tool, we help clients find joy in movement and create a healthier, more balanced relationship with fitness.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking to reconnect with exercise in a new way, Empowered RX is here to support you every step of the way. Through our trauma-informed, evidence-based exercise prescription approach, we help clients heal, grow, and thrive—both in and out of the gym.
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