#113 – Powerlifting, Pain, and Programming Smarter – With Justin Geisler

Ever wonder what happens when a physical therapist is a powerlifter?

In this episode, I chat with Justin Geisler—a Doctor of Physical Therapy who’s also a strength and nutrition coach.

We get into everything from managing pain during training to the benefits of heavy lifting across all ages.

Justin shares his journey from hands-on therapy to virtual coaching, and we explore how real-world strength can carry over into longevity, injury resilience, and quality of life.

Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or someone navigating pain, this episode is full of practical insight.

We cover:

• The surprising lifestyle of a traveling physical therapist
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• How physical therapy often misses the mark after injury
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• Why manual therapy is overrated and strength training is underutilized

• How aging adults can safely deadlift, squat, and bench

• The real reason strength training reduces mortality risk

• The right way to work around injuries without losing momentum

• Why chasing PRs too often can backfire

• Simple rules to separate hypertrophy from strength-focused training

• Tips for physical therapists and coaches who want to actually walk the walk

Justin also shares how fatherhood shifted his training goals—and why being strong still matters more than ever.

To find out more from Justin

Instagram @longevity.lifting

Find more from Rhyland

On Instagram/TikTok/YouTube: @rqtrainingnutrition

Twitter: @QuallyRhyland

www.RQtrainingnutrition.com