Strength training can be an important part of managing persistent pain and improving physical function. However, many people feel unsure about how to begin or worry that movement may worsen their symptoms.
This group medical visit introduces strength training in a supportive and medically guided environment. The session includes both education and live, instructor-led movement to help you safely explore foundational strengthening exercises.
During the session, we review key principles of strength training for people living with persistent pain, including pacing, nervous system sensitivity, and how to interpret sensations that arise during and after movement. You will learn how gradual, controlled strengthening can support improved tolerance for activity and help reduce fear of movement over time.
You will then practice functional movement patterns that target major muscle groups, with an emphasis on proper form, control, and symptom-informed pacing.
This is an interactive session. You will be asked to keep your video on so the facilitator can observe movement patterns and provide real-time feedback, cueing, and individualized modifications to support safe participation.
No equipment is required. The focus is on learning movement patterns first. You may choose to have light dumbbells nearby if you use them at home. Household items such as cans of soup or beans can also be used to introduce light load, and resistance bands can be incorporated if available.
This session is principles-based rather than diagnosis-specific and is suitable for people living with a range of persistent pain conditions. The goal is to help you build confidence with movement, develop safe strength-training strategies, and gradually improve functional capacity as part of your pain management and recovery plan.
Because this session introduces strengthening movements, we recommend that you feel comfortable with gentle movement practices before attending. Many people benefit from first attending Foundations of Mindfulness and Gentle Movement or Qi Gong and Mindful Movement, unless they already have a regular movement practice that feels well established and manageable.
This session is led by Hayley Alexander (physiotherapist) & Dr. Noah Alexander.
Current patients can book here.