Coach Q&A With Dr.Chris McElderry

We sat down with Neurologic Clinical Specialist and TrueCoach ambassador Dr.Chris McElderry (@theneuroguy_dpt) to see how he utilizes TrueCoach as a physical therapist to build his business and serve unique populations. Here’s what he had to say.

Q: How do you use TrueCoach? 

A: I utilize TrueCoach to remotely program daily workouts and wellness sessions for my clients. I often communicate with them daily through the TC Connect App, providing feedback and encouragement after completion of their daily workouts. WIth constant communication back and forth I’m able to make small adjustments to help methodically progress their program toward reaching their goals!  

Q: What is your favorite feature of TrueCoach? 

A: It’s very unique to find a platform where you can easily insert customized videos into one’s program in the way TrueCoach allows you to! As a physical therapist, a lot of information I communicate to my clients is about education and considerations of movement patterns, modifications, load tolerance and management of symptoms. I need the ability to specifically tailor each exercise to that individual and TrueCoach allows me to do so!  

Q: What population/demographics do you deliver programming for and what is the goal of their programming? 

A: I’m a board-certified clinical specialist in neurologic physical therapy, so nearly all of my clients have a neurologic diagnosis (most common are stroke and Parkinson’s disease). The goal for each client varies, however a few overarching principles of what I try and provide/apply are the latest evidence-based practice guidelines for movement/exercise as it pertains to their diagnosis, education on new research/considerations in new medical treatment to discuss with their primary care providers and daily motivation/guidance/coaching to preserve their independence and maintain their ability to live the quality of life they desire!  

Q: How has incorporating online/virtual coaching impacted your business? 

A: It allows me to stay in constant communication with my clients which is vital if they’re struggling with an exercise/movement pattern or have a question about a new intervention they heard about and want to discuss the possibilities of it. I can provide the type of close guidance I was looking for to ensure the best results for my clients!  

Q: What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring fitness and health professional venturing into the entrepreneurial space? 

A: Pursue your passion! Don’t wait until you think you have it all figured out. Jump in and go for it! There’s a learning curve no matter what, but getting started is the hardest part. Once you get started, you’ll figure things out as you go along and your practice/business will continue to evolve. If you’re cautious, start small and slowly build up your clientele! Seek out guidance from others in the space that have had success in a similar model and constantly learn! Be a lifelong student of the profession! 

Discover how TrueCoach and optimize outcomes through personalized exercise programs and seamless communication between healthcare providers and their patients in our ebook. Learn more about utilizing TrueCoach for physical therapy here.

Author: Bobby O'Connell FRSA CSM