At Beacon PT we always try to practice what we preach, not only to be good role models to our patients, but also because we know that movement is good for our mental and physical wellbeing and it helps us to do the things we love to do outside of the clinic.

This week we spotlight the owner and mastermind behind this amazing clinic that is Beacon Physical Therapy, Charlie King!

Name: Charlie King

What are your favorite recreational activities, and why? 

I love most things that get me outside.  Particularly love sailing with my friends but also hiking, biking, paddle boarding, playing basketball with my kids in the driveway etc.

What are your two favorite exercises (or forms of exercise) that you do right now? 

I’m consistent with a daily walk, mostly in the early morning. Sometimes I get to take a second walk in the evenings with my wife Erin.  I also get out for a longer activity (hike, bike, sail, paddle) on the weekends.

Why do you like each one? 

Morning walks have so many benefits for me.  I think of them as the beginning of a virtuous cycle.  If I get up early and walk, I wake up faster and am more prepared for the day and more productive.  I also am appropriately tired at the end of the day and I sleep better.

The longer activities on the weekend are usually social, having the time to cycle with a friend or go for a longer hike with the family.

How have you noticed these activities improve your performance? 

As I mentioned, the routine of a morning walk improves just about everything about my day.

What keeps you motivated to keep doing this exercise?

I definitely feel better when I am consistent.  Sometimes it’s hard to get going if it is raining or cold, but I know if I just do it I’ll feel better.

How do you keep yourself accountable to do this exercise? 

One thought on this is to get out of the “all or nothing” mentality trap.  If for instance I am running behind schedule and don’t have time for my full routine, I don’t just scrap it entirely.  I just use whatever time I have and know that I will complete it later on.

Tell us about an exercise that you don’t love to do, but still do because you know it’s beneficial for you? 

As a manual therapist, keeping my hands in good shape is a must.  Every day I do some stretches and self-care activities for my hands.  In addition, at least 3-4 times a week I do some shoulder blade stabilization exercises and pulling activities to compensate for all the forward oriented movements my job entails.  Sometimes this stuff feels like going to the dentist – I don’t love it but I know it is necessary. I need to keep it up so I can continue to do the work I do love!