The Outdoor Muscle Show Episode 6: Injury prevention for hikers
Pain is part of the game when it comes to hiking, running, and pushing your body outdoors—but it doesn’t have to be permanent. Whether it’s knee pain on a long descent, foot pain after a big mileage weekend, or mysterious hip tightness that flares up every time you hit the trail, understanding your body can help you stay out there longer and stronger.
In today’s episode of The Outdoor Muscle Show, we’re digging into how hikers and runners can reduce pain, recover faster, and prevent injuries before they start. My guest is a doctor of physical therapy who specializes in helping outdoor athletes move better, feel stronger, and stay pain free—so they can keep chasing big views.
This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone who’s dealt with lingering aches, overuse injuries, or trail-side discomfort. From the surprising root causes of common pain points to simple exercises you can do at home or on the trail, this conversation is all about keeping your body ready for adventure.
Table of Contents
Dr. Nick Pippert
Today, I’m joined by Dr. Nick Pippert, a physical therapist who specializes in recovery and injury prevention for hikers. As an outdoor enthusiast himself, Nick knows how frustrating it is to deal with nagging injuries that limit your time outside—and he’s made it his mission to help others stay strong and mobile for the long haul.
Nick runs a platform dedicated to helping outdoor athletes understand their bodies, recover smarter, and move with less pain. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and years of experience, he brings a science-backed, movement-first approach to injury prevention and recovery.
In our conversation, Nick breaks down how pain in one part of the body is often caused by dysfunction in another, why mobility and strength are both critical for trail performance, and what you can actually do when pain pops up in the middle of a hike or run.
Show Highlights
- How Nick found his passion for helping hikers
- When to seek professional help
- Common pain patterns for trail athletes
- Why your knee pain might not be a knee problem
- Trail-side strategies for pain relief
- Exercises to prevent injury and improve mobility
- Why strength training is non-negotiable
- Recovery tools that actually work
Connect with Nick
- Nick’s Instagram: dr.nickpippert
- Book a Consultation with Nick Here (mention OUTDOOR MUSCLE to save 10%)
- Nick’s Website
Episode 6: Injury Prevention for Hikers
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Outdoor Muscle Show! If you enjoyed today’s conversation with Dr. Nick Pippert and want more tools to help you train smarter, recover faster, and live an adventurous life, please support the show by subscribing to the YouTube channel. Your support helps me reach more outdoor athletes and adventurers just like you!
If you’re ready to take your training to the next level, I’d love to help you get there. Whether you’re preparing for your first trail race, trying to overcome a nagging injury, or looking to combine strength with endurance, my personalized coaching program and DIY training plans are designed to support your goals. Visit the Coaching page to book a free consultation and start your journey today.
Stay strong, stay moving, and I’ll catch you on the next episode of The Outdoor Muscle Show.
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Buck is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT), & UESCA Run Coach. He is the founder of Outdoor Muscle, a veteran-owned company dedicated to providing endurance athletes and adventure seekers the resources they need to achieve their fitness goals.
