Joe Assaley
At age 60, Joe Assaley makes his strides in cross-training along-side athletes in their 20s and 30s. It is part of his daily routine. But recent injuries, while training, left him pacing in the rear of the pack.
"I love to exercise. It's part of who I am," Assaley explained. "I look forward to working out and I take pride in the fact that I can keep up with younger athletes."
Assaley suffered a meniscus tear in his knee and a partially torn bicep tendon in his shoulder. His knee injury required minor surgery. He attributes his speedy recovery to the reconditioning program he was offered at the Marshall Sports Medicine Institute (MSMI).
"Dr. Assaley came to the MSMI for physical therapy and was introduced to the Bridge program to recondition him to fitness activities," said Tom Belmaggio, MS, ATC, CSC, program coordinator at MSMI.
The Bridge program is a continued training/exercise regimen offered to patients after they are discharged from physical therapy. The program is conducted and supervised by a certified athletic trainer who designs an exercise program to target each patient’s specific needs for strengthening.
"They put together a program designed just for me to get me up to speed. I then transitioned into the STACK program and am now back to keeping up with people half my age," Assaley said.
The STACK program is designed for active adults looking for a challenge. It actively challenges an individual's effort and coordination with 60 minute movement-based sessions.
"These sessions are never the same and they are designed to be fun, fast-pasted and educational," said Belmaggio. "The result is an increase in fitness as well as improved metabolism, body composition and exercise technique."
Assaley has not only returned to his regular fitness routine, but he has continued with the STACK program to enhance his performance.
"I am back doing all the things I love and now enjoying them even more," Assaley said. "These programs are not just for the high school athlete or the weekend warrior; they're for anyone who wants to improve their athletic skills and overall fitness."
The Marshall Sports Medicine Institute encompasses all aspects of sports medicine, including orthopedics, primary care, physical therapy, nutritionists, aquatic therapy, performance enhancement, chiropractic care and sports psychology. For more information please call 304.691.1880.
