NAME: Betsy Scudder, Physical Therapist (DPT)
AGE: 53
LOCATION: Ashburn, VA
INTRO FROM EMILY: No secrets here! I met Betsy when she helped me with a knee injury years ago in physical therapy. It was a complete success! So thankful to have found her. Imagine my surprise when she came to me for training later on! She is amazing at what she does and STRONG in every sense of the word!
What made you reach out to Emily Ledford Fitness and Nutrition?
I got to know Emily several years ago working with her in a professional situation (HIPAA compliance there!) and we developed a friendship. I was impressed with her level of strength training & knowledge about health & fitness, as well as her drive to be RKC certified {Russian Kettlebell}- so she quickly earned my respect!
Tell me a little about what you do, family, etc.
I am a wife of 31 years, a mom to three grown daughters and a mother-in-law. I have been a physical therapist since 1986 and a certified Mechanical Diagnostic Therapist (“McKenzie Method”) since 2003. I have just recently started my own Telehealth PT clinic (Scudder Physical Therapy / www.scudderpt.com) which will allow patients to access a thorough physical therapy evaluation and treatment plan from the convenience of their own home or office. I also work as an independent contractor at a large pharmaceutical corporation once a week as a work place injury prevention and wellness program consultant. Love my work as a PT!
What did you do for exercise prior to coming here?
For years, I was a volleyball player. I discovered a few years ago that I really loved kettlebell training when working with a local trainer. When I first came to Emily Ledford Fitness, I began with her online training program. I found this to be a really great way for me to jump start my workouts. Later, I participated in her Semi-Private training class to have someone keep me more accountable. I also love to walk/run, do yoga, and even some Pilates or Zumba when the mood strikes me.
FAVORITE LIFT?
I love Turkish get ups! They just look cool. Kettlebell swings are also high on my list.
Most memorable exercise event or personal record?
As someone who despised long distance running for most of my life, I was pretty proud of myself for completing my 1st 5K with my daughter’s "Girls on the Run" club in 2009. Ever since, I have participated in the Loudoun Lyme 5K. After contracting Lyme Disease in 1999, I am thankful every year that I can still run that race!
What inspires and motivates you?
I preach “Movement is Medicine” all the time to my patients, and I need to practice what I preach! Besides, it is SO true. Over these past 30 years as a physical therapist, I’ve seen the most physically and mentally fit (and quickest-to-heal elderly patients) are the ones taking the fewest medications and still exercising in whatever way they can. My goal over the next 30-40 years is to leave this earth with all of my own joints in my body, and the best way to achieve that is to KEEP THEM MOVING!
What has changed in the way of issues such as self-doubt, confidence or fear--
not limited to the gym?
In my experience, being physically strong translates to feeling & being emotionally strong. I have been on the other side of that coin and I can say it is much better to be on this side! I grew up as the “awkward tall girl” but having athletic abilities gave me confidence in ways that I didn’t realize until I became the mother of three tall girls! I was blessed to be able to pass on to them the importance of eating healthy, exercising and being part of a team. For girls, that is so empowering!
What is the coolest side effect you’ve had from lifting?
Feeling comfortable and fantastic in my tight-fitting mother of the bride dress at my
daughter's wedding!
Emily's note: Betsy is on the left as the fit mom of the bride!
Best compliment you have received more recently?
Emily Ledford told me I was still looking athletic even when I was coming off of 3 months of being really inconsistent with exercise!
What would you tell other women who have never lifted heavy before?
Give it a try, but make sure you have someone knowledgeable guiding you, either a physical therapist (if you are coming off an injury or illness) or a great personal trainer (like Emily). Particularly for women, it is so important for bone health. It’s also a fantastic way to unlock that little medicine cabinet full of “feel good” hormones tucked away in our brains. The most important thing is to find movements that you enjoy and will stick to. It might not be heavy lifting, but it could be. You won’t know until you try! Remember: “There are lots of movements that can substitute for medicine; but not one medicine that can substitute for movement!”
Emily's note: Wow, what a perfect quote and HOW TRUE, Betsy!
CONNECT WITH BETSY!
You can connect with Betsy Scudder! Web: Scudderpt.com