Breaking Barriers: Barbell Training & Functional Fitness in Rehab with PT Kristin Famiglietti and PTA Ashley Faller

Send us Fan MailWelcome to today’s episode, where we’re exploring the world of functional fitness and barbell training, and why it has an important place in rehab and athletic programming. We’re joined by two incredible clinicians, physical therapist, Kristin Famiglietti and  physical therapy assistant, Ashley Faller, who will guide us through everything from Olympic lifts to powerlifting, CrossFit movements, and other functional fitness modalities. Together, we’ll break down common misconceptions about barbell training, review key points of performance, discuss frequent movement faults and corrections, and importantly, talk about how to modify exercises to keep patients moving safely while recovering from injury. From post-ACL reconstruction, shoulder injuries, or low back issues, to general orthopedic or overuse injuries, barbell training — when programmed correctly — can be a powerful tool to restore strength, confidence, and function. Whether you’re a PT, coach, or athlete, this episode will give you practical strategies and expert insight to progressively load patients without fear, maintain safety, and optimize recovery.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!