Continue building strength, confidence, and independence after physical therapy.
The Next Step Program Was Created to Help Bridge the Gap
Many people finish physical therapy feeling much better, but they don’t always feel ready to jump back into the gym, sports, or the activities they enjoy most. You may still want to improve your strength, endurance, balance, or confidence before returning to your normal routine.
It provides continued one-on-one guidance in a familiar environment, helping you safely build on the progress you’ve already made while preparing you to return to an active lifestyle.
What is the Next Step Program?
The Next Step Program is a post-rehabilitation fitness program designed for individuals who have completed physical therapy but want continued support before exercising independently.
Unlike traditional personal training, this program begins with the progress you’ve already made in physical therapy. Your personal trainer collaborates with your physical therapist to understand your recovery, your goals, and the safest way to continue progressing. Every program is individualized to your needs, helping you move forward with confidence while reducing the risk of setbacks.
Who is it for?
The Next Step Program is designed for individuals who are ready to move beyond rehabilitation but aren’t quite ready to do it alone.
Whether you’re returning after surgery, recovering from an injury, preparing to get back to your favorite sport, or simply want to continue getting stronger, this program provides the guidance and accountability to help you keep progressing.
Many participants join because they want to:
- Return to the gym with confidence.
- Get back to running, golf, pickleball, or other activities.
- Continue improving strength and mobility.
- Build endurance after completing therapy.
- Reduce the risk of re-injury.
- Feel more confident exercising on their own.
How It Works
Your physical therapist will determine when you’re ready to transition into the Next Step Program based on your recovery and goals.
From there, you’ll work one-on-one with a personal trainer who will continue progressing your strength, mobility, balance, endurance, and overall function. Throughout the program, your trainer and physical therapist work together to help ensure your exercise plan aligns with your recovery and long-term goals.
The goal isn’t simply to exercise. It’s to help you confidently transition from rehabilitation to independent fitness.
Why choose the Next Step Program?
Recovering from an injury doesn’t always mean you’re ready to return to everything you were doing before. Many people feel uncertain about where to start, how hard to push themselves, or whether they’re doing the right exercises.
The Next Step Program provides a structured transition with professional guidance, allowing you to continue making progress without feeling like you’re starting over on your own.
Because your trainer understands your recovery and works alongside your physical therapist, you can continue building strength and confidence in a safe, supportive environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this still physical therapy?
No. The Next Step Program is a personal training program designed for individuals who have completed physical therapy and want continued guidance toward their goals.
Is it covered by insurance?
No. The Next Step Program is a self-pay service.
How long is the program?
The program includes a package of 10 one-on-one sessions. Participants may purchase up to two packages before transitioning into ongoing personal training.
Will my physical therapist still be involved?
Yes. Your personal trainer works collaboratively with your physical therapist to help ensure your program supports your recovery and long-term goals.
What happens after I finish?
Many participants transition into independent exercise or continue with personal training to keep progressing toward their fitness goals.
Where is The Next Step Program available?
The Next Step Program is currently available at our Bloomer and Rice Lake, Wisconsin locations.
Pricing
| Next Step Program | |
|---|---|
| 10 One-on-One 40-Minute Sessions | $450 |
Keep Moving Forward
Completing physical therapy is a major milestone, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your progress. The Next Step Program helps you continue building strength, confidence, and independence so you can get back to the activities you enjoy most.
Locations
Content reviewed by Brittany Myren, PTA & Personal Trainer at Optimum Therapies.