Join me on BlogTalkRadio on Tuesday February 16, 2010 at 8:00 pm central time for the latest episode of "Consumer's Guide To Health". The McKenzie Method is an assessment method for musculoskeletal conditions that has gained considerable support in the scientific research. But as it stands, the sports world is relatively devoid of McKenzie practitioners. With it's focus on self care strategies, mechanical assessment procedures, and prevention, the McKenzie Method is the perfect fit for an active population.

This episode's special guests will be Bridget Clark, PT, MSPT, DPT and Curt Rickert, PT, Dip. MDT.. Both Clark and Rickert utilize the McKenzie Method in the care of the active, sports- and fitness-minded individuals, as does the show's host, Allan Besselink, PT, Dip. MDT. Besselink and Clark have recently collaborated on a chapter on running injuries for the upcoming book "Clinical Orthopedic Rehabilitation" by Brotzman and Manske (editors).

The BlogTalkRadio call-in number is 646-929-1567. You can listen online at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/abesselink and also download this and previous episodes here as well.

Join us for the discussion!

The RunSmart Training Group is a free running group that meets on Tuesday and Thursday at 5:45pm at RunTex Riverside (map) in Austin, Texas. We will typically leave RunTex by 5:55. This group has been in existence since 2002 and is Austin's best-kept running secret.

The sessions are interval-based so you can do as little or as much as you like. Sessions are based on the principles of the book and serve as a good introduction to it's content and application.

There is a special focus on running mechanics and individualized feedback.

In the future, a paid program will supplement this and allow runners to have an individual program, based on their goals, written for them in the context of the training group.

Group members receive discounts to a number of Austin-area services that promote the RunSmart approach, including RunTex, Smart Sport International, and others.

The club is registered with USA Track and Field.

Here's what they are saying about "RunSmart: A Comprehensive Approach To Injury-Free Running" -

"RunSmart review from an age-group multisport athlete: Allan's philosophy and approach have kept me injury-free for the past four years. As a long-distance age-group triathlete with a full-time job, staying healthy and uninjured has been one of my keys to seeing continuous improvement. What I love most about the RunSmart approach is that it allows the individual athlete to take control of his or her training by giving them the "why?" behind loading strategies (cognitive/mechanical/nutritional), recovery, scheduling, and pacing. This is a must-have reference for the aspiring multisport athlete!" (Paul Terranova - 3:00 marathoner and sub-10:00 Ironman Hawaii age group competitor - review posted on lulu.com)

"Allan's fresh perspective on recovery-centered running and training is a welcome shift away from 100-mile weeks, 'more is better', and cookie-cutter approaches. All levels of athletes from working parents, college athletes, weekend warriors, and dedicated amateur runners can apply his principles for a better and more consistent level of running performance." (Josh Kennedy - Western States 100 finisher)

"'RunSmart' is a complete manual for the endurance athlete. The scientific method and common sense are blended to educate the runner to make informed choices in managing his or her endurance sport. As a Diplomat in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy, I am especially encouraged in the application of MDT in treating injuries encountered by runners." (Curt Rickert - Mckenzie Diplomat)

"I want to tell you how much I enjoyed and was helped by your [RunSmart] class. My stride feels much more natural, and some of the nagging little injuries are starting to fade away - like aching knee joints, etc." (L.A. Williams - recreational runner)

"After a few days of following his plan, the (back) pain began to decrease and my range of motion improved. I didn't have to take drugs, have surgery, or stop my daily training regimen. Allan's expertise as a coach, is only matched by his expertise as a physical therapist." (Lisa Sousares - triathlete)

"I believe that the Smart Sport program is a balanced scientifically-based program that can fit the needs of all athletes from the beginner to the elite athlete." (Dr. Mark Iannini - family physician)

"A fantastic book to read and to keep for reference for training, nutrition, hydration, injury prevention, anatomy, biology, chemistry, etc. Allan knows so much and is able to speak the language so that it's comprehensible to all. I do not go a week without it!" (Robin Warnken - massage therapist, fitness professional, and Ironman finisher - review posted on facebook.com)

RunSmart will be making an appearance at the Austin Marathon Expo!

An educational session entitled "RunSmart: An Evidence-Based Approach To The Injured Runner" is scheduled on Saturday February 13, 2010 at 5:00 pm during the Austin Marathon Expo at the Palmer Events Center (900 Barton Springs Road). Allan Besselink, PT, Dip.MDT, Austin physical therapist, endurance sports coach, and author of "RunSmart: A Comprehensive Approach To Injury-Free Running", will discuss the causes of running injuries, the currently-held beliefs, and the present evidence on effective treatment of them.

This is a free event. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing.

Update 2/10/10: Books will be available at the RunTex booth, and I will be at the RunTex booth Friday 5:00 - 6:00, Sat 11:00 - 12:00 and 3:00 - 4:00 - answering questions, signing books, and helping out the good folks at RunTex!