Dr. Zach Long of Onward Physical Therapy: Real PT for Real Athletes: Just Say No Cookie-Cutter Rehab

In this high-impact episode of the True Sports Physical Therapy Podcast, Dr. Yoni Rosenblatt sits down with Dr. Zach Long, better known as The Barbell Physio, to unpack everything from CrossFit rehab to building one of the most innovative PT models in the U.S. Zach is not only a founder of Onward Physical Therapy with over 40 clinics nationwide, but he’s also a top-tier educator with the Institute of Clinical Excellence (ICE), where he helps redefine what it means to be a fitness-forward PT.

They dig deep into real-world physical therapy: how to move away from generic mobility programming and toward sport-specific, meaningful interventions. Zach shares his diagnostic and treatment strategies for the ankle, hip, thoracic spine, and shoulder, using practical examples from overhead squats and Olympic lifting. From hands-off coaching techniques to when and how to use manual therapy, you’ll walk away with pearls that apply to any athlete, PT, or coach.

Zach also opens up about his business journey. Balancing a growing online brand, teaching courses, managing clinics, and staying connected to the clinical side of patient care. The two dive into what it takes to grow a PT brand, hire the right team, and build long-term relationships in a community-driven model. If you’re a PT frustrated by the traditional insurance system or burned out by cookie-cutter approaches, this episode is for you.

Whether you’re a clinician, athlete, or fitness professional, Zach’s insight into mobility, assessment, and building a purpose-driven PT career will change the way you think about movement. Prepare to take notes, this is one of those episodes you’ll want to revisit.

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