When summer hits in West Michigan, it’s easy to trade your usual routine for lake days, vacations, and patio time—and we’re all for that! But if you’ve been working on your strength, balance, or pain management through physical therapy, taking a break for the season could set you back more than you think.
At Vitality At Home, we understand that summer is a time to relax and enjoy—but staying consistent with your physical therapy is one of the best ways to make sure you feel strong enough to keep doing all the things you love all season long.
Here’s why staying on track with your PT this summer matters.
1. Strength and Balance Don’t Take Breaks
When it comes to aging well, momentum is everything. Just a few weeks off can lead to a decrease in strength, endurance, and balance, especially if you’re already managing arthritis, joint pain, or a history of falls.
💡 Fun fact: According to the American Physical Therapy Association, staying active is one of the strongest predictors of maintaining independence after 65. PT keeps you moving safely—so you can keep up with your grandkids, travel confidently, or tend to your garden without hesitation.
2. Pain Doesn’t Pause for Summer
That nagging knee pain or back stiffness? It doesn’t care if you’ve got vacation plans. Taking time off from therapy can cause a return of symptoms, especially for chronic conditions like sciatica, tendinopathy, or spinal stenosis. If anything, activities like long car rides, extra yardwork, or sleeping in a different bed can stir up new issues.
👉 Not sure how to stay on track during a trip? We offer customized travel-friendly PT plans that you can follow from your hotel, cabin, or even the airport lounge. Try this resistance band program out: Resistance Band Program
3. Small Steps Add Up Over Time
Physical therapy isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about showing up consistently. Even just 2 sessions a week (or one maintenance session) can keep your progress moving forward and prevent regression. Think of it like watering a plant: skip a week or two, and it’s a lot harder to bring it back to life.
💪 Don’t let the progress you’ve worked so hard for fade. Even if your summer is busy, we can help adjust your plan so it works with your schedule—not against it.
4. You Can Make PT Work for Summer
Physical therapy doesn’t have to be a disruption to your summer—it can actually enhance it. Whether it’s helping you build stamina for a trip, improve balance for the boat dock, or keep your joints moving during gardening season, your PT plan should support your lifestyle.
Here are a few summer-friendly tools that can help you stay consistent:
- 👉This compact resistance band set is great for hotel or patio workouts
- 👉This garden kneeler and seat makes outdoor activity safer and easier
- 👉This water bottle keeps you cool and hydrated—and might even impress your grandkids 😉
5. Pro Tip: Plan for Gaps Before They Happen
Heading out of town? Let your PT know! We can help you prepare with:
- A tailored home program or travel routine
- Mobility tools or assistive devices to take with you
- Advice on pain prevention for flights, long drives, or unfamiliar beds
- Quick video check-ins, if appropriate
Traveling but still want to stay on track? Ask us about our telehealth services—they’re a convenient way to continue PT sessions while you’re away. All you need is a device with a camera and a little space to move. Whether you’re at the cottage, on vacation, or visiting family, we’ll guide you through your exercises and adjust your plan as needed.
We’re here to keep you moving, even when you’re not at home.
Stay Strong All Season Long
You don’t need to press pause on your goals just because it’s summer. A little consistency now will go a long way in keeping you active, mobile, and pain-free into fall and beyond.
🌞 Need help adjusting your PT plan for summer?
👉 Schedule a free consultation or give us a call 616-414-9155 and we’ll help you stay on track in a way that fits your life—and your summer.