At Relentless Physical Therapy in Farmington Valley, Dr. Peter Inserillo, DPT, PT, CSCS, CFSC, is breaking the mold of traditional physical therapy.
His innovative clinic combines physical therapy with strength and conditioning, focusing not just on pain-free basic function but on enhancing overall athletic performance. With a comprehensive approach, Dr. Inserillo and his team help clients, including high school athletes seeking greater performance for college play, reach new heights.
This approach is a game-changer for athletes, particular high school and college-level athletes, in the Farmington Valley area.
"It's not just about returning to basic function and being pain-free," Dr. Inserillo explains. "Our version includes those things but also focuses on enhancing performance. We specialize in athletics, and our goal is to build a machine better than the original by incorporating the performance aspect."
One of the standout features of Relentless Physical Therapy is its emphasis on mental fortitude and resilience.
"The biggest adjustment for athletes moving to a higher level is the mentality and mental toughness required," Dr. Inserillo notes. "Athletes need to be subjected to adversity and placed in uncomfortable situations to progress, not just in sport but in life. We introduce controlled chaos to keep them safe while building them up, subjecting them to real resistance."
This method has proven effective for many athletes, including a local high school basketball player who faced significant challenges.
"We had a player who barely played during his junior year of high school because his coach didn't believe in him," Dr. Inserillo shares. "From January 2023 to November 2023, he trained with us and eventually committed to playing at the University of Saint Joseph. The biggest thing we stressed was focusing on things within his control. Eventually, something positive came out of it."
It's becoming common for parents to seek out training programs and facilities for their kids to safely participate in strength and conditioning, he adds.
"Research suggests that proper training is paramount to preventing injuries and improving athletic performance. We have clients as young as 10 years old! Teaching kids early how to move well and emphasize proper form and technique is huge in their development."
His experiences shaped his philosophy.
"I didn't play much in college, and I couldn't control how coaches rated me, but I could control my effort and attitude," he says. "Coaches want to test their athletes and put them in uncomfortable situations. Their response speaks volumes."
His approach starts with a thorough athlete profile.
"When we get a new client, we do a full profile, including a protocol of testing to assess their strengths and weaknesses. We take all that data and put it into multiple equations to determine where they need the most assistance. We focus on their weaknesses and strong points and consider where they are in their training season."
This data-driven approach has led to success stories, such as a professional soccer player and a golfer with his PGA Tour card. But the philosophy at Relentless goes beyond physical training.
"It's about setting non-negotiables. Every day, list items that are non-negotiable, no matter how good or bad the day is. Take care of your body, study—frame it that way, and it becomes a habit."
Relentless Physical Therapy is named after the book "Relentless," embodying a transformation that transcends physical training.
"It's a lifestyle," Dr. Inserillo says. We aim to instill resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence in our athletes, both on and off the field."
For more information visit Relentlesspt.com.