Santiago "Santi" Villamil, elite physical therapist, strength/conditioning coach and core specialist, talks about the fitness industry, and his philosophy of "Keep it simple, sweet and powerful."

As a sought-after Physical Therapist and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) with a long, successful career in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation, sports performance, and the fitness industry in general, Villamil works every day to find new ways to challenge people and help them live their best lives. Villamil is a graduate of the University of Florida, where he received a Masters in Physical Therapy and a Bachelors in Exercise Physiology with a minor in Nutrition.

Villamil's highest goal and mission is to empower people to take control of their health and "inspire the athlete in everyone." As he states, Villamil works with many people with various needs, from rehabilitation to pain relief, to getting people back to doing what they love. Villamil talks about the kinds of people he works with, from athletes, to women with autoimmune issues, to those who suffer from chronic pain. Villamil talks techniques, and the important element of getting back into good shape and conditioning. First, he states, they work on improving the mindset of an individual—performing simple tasks like getting up, being grateful, taking a walk. This process of shifting the mind involves steps that can get you there. Listening to clients is key, helping them channel their needs so they can accomplish their goals.

The conditioning expert talks in-depth about body movement, and changes that can happen over time. He states that sometimes people go too hard in the beginning and the body cannot compensate if the rush to a goal is too quick. The programs that Villamil focuses on always stress the importance of making individualized plans, and considering multiple factors. Wrapping up, Villamil talks about certifications and the qualifications of coaches and conditioning experts. He cautions that everyone should look carefully at the qualifications and experience before settling in with just any trainer or physical therapist for orthopedic work or physical therapy exercises.

In this podcast you will learn about:

The importance of working gradually toward a conditioning goal

How a good mindset is the first key step in resetting your life

How all certified therapists are definitely not equal, and what to look for in a therapist