Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions about our techniques, training programs, and therapy offerings — so you feel confident and informed

Muscle Activation Technique

Discover how MAT pinpoints and reactivates weak muscles that may be causing compensation, stiffness, or discomfort — helping restore strength, balance, and natural movement patterns.

What should I expect during a MAT session?

In an MAT session, we will assess your range of motion in different positions to identify limitations. Then, we'll test individual muscles that control those movements. You'll be actively involved in the process, moving into various positions with guidance from Kate. If a muscle is found to be weak or underperforming, we'll use either gentle palpation or isometric holds to re-activate it. Once we've worked through the muscle system, we'll recheck your range of motion to confirm improvement. Most clients notice immediate relief and increased freedom of movement after the session.

Can MAT help with posture problems from desk work or prolonged sitting?

Absolutely. Prolonged sitting creates predictable muscle imbalances-hip flexors become tight and overactive while glutes often shut down, deep neck muscles weaken while upper traps become overworked. MAT identifies which specific muscles have stopped functioning properly due to these postural stresses and reactivates them through precise testing and activation techniques. By addressing the root neuromuscular dysfunction rather than just stretching tight muscles, MAT helps restore proper muscle function and can significantly improve posture-related pain and movement restrictions.

Do you offer a program to help me return to exercise and daily activities based on my specific pain triggers? How do I safely start training again?

Yes, Kate offers a specialized approach to help clients return to normal daily function and enhance performance. Based on your specific pain triggers, small group classes (with no more than three participants) are available to guide you through proper form and progressions. These sessions are tailored to ensure you move safely and effectively as you work toward regaining strength and getting back to the activities and exercises you love.

How long will my MAT session last?

Your first MAT session will be 1 hour. Follow-up appointments will typically last about 45 minutes.

Will I need a follow-up MAT session? How long will the results last?

Everyone responds differently, but most people experience lasting relief after an MAT session. However, since injuries and chronic issues don't develop overnight, it's rare to resolve everything in just one session. While it can happen, it's uncommon. Most clients benefit from 5-10 sessions, typically spaced a week apart, depending on the severity of the issue. While MAT doesn't "cure" conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or rotator cuff tears, it helps the body heal by improving muscle function and joint stability, which reduces inflammation and supports recovery.

Can MAT and Precision Back Pain Assessment help improve my performance in a specific sport? Can I enhance my performance after an injury?

Absolutely. Both the McGill Method and Muscle Activation Technique (MAT) are highly effective in boosting sports performance by addressing muscular imbalances and refining movement patterns.

The McGill Method is particularly useful for athletes dealing with back pain or movement limitations. By identifying the root cause of pain and correcting faulty movement patterns, it helps athletes return to their sport safely while also improving biomechanics. This can enhance posture, core stability, and power, benefiting activities like running, weightlifting, and any sport that requires spinal strength and flexibility.

MAT works to correct muscle imbalances that often go unnoticed. Many athletes have muscles that aren't firing correctly, leading to compensations and inefficiencies. By restoring proper muscle function, MAT improves stability, strength, and control, allowing for better movement, agility, and endurance. It also reduces the risk of injury, helping athletes maintain peak performance for longer.

Together, the McGill Method and MAT provide a comprehensive approach to both injury recovery and performance enhancement, ensuring athletes not only return to their sport but also achieve their full potential.

Apex Concierge Training

Learn what sets our personalized training apart. Concierge sessions are tailored to your body’s needs, focusing on biomechanics, safe progression, and long-term performance improvements.

What makes Apex concierge training different from regular personal training?

Our approach combines Kate's advanced certifications in MAT, McGill Method, and movement science with extremely limited availability to ensure personalized attention. Every program is built specifically around your biomechanics and goals, with continuous real-time adjustments that you simply can't get in standard gym settings.

Can you help me if I've never worked with a trainer before or feel intimidated?

Absolutely. Kate specializes in meeting clients exactly where they are, whether you're a complete beginner or returning to fitness after years away. Our private setting eliminates intimidation, and every movement is taught progressively to build confidence alongside strength.

How do you ensure I won't get injured during training?

Injury prevention is built into every aspect of our methodology. We begin with a comprehensive movement assessment, focus intensively on proper mechanics, and progress systematically based on your body's response. Kate's MAT background allows her to identify and address dysfunction before it becomes injury.

How often should I train, and what does a typical session look like?

Training frequency depends on your goals and recovery capacity, typically ranging from 2-4 sessions per week. Each session includes movement assessment, targeted warm-up, strength training with precise form coaching, and recovery strategies. Sessions last 60-75 minutes with your complete focus on quality over quantity.

What credentials and experience does Kate bring to training?

Kate holds advanced certifications in Muscle Activation Techniques, NASM Personal Training, McGill Method, Z-Health, and Functional Range Conditioning. As a former Ironman triathlete with over 15 years of specialized experience, she understands both the science and psychology of transformation.

Is this training approach suitable for my specific health condition or limitations?

Kate's extensive background in corrective exercise and post-rehabilitation training means she can work safely with most conditions. During your consultation, we'll discuss your specific situation and determine how to design a program that supports your health while achieving your goals.

Precision Back Pain Assessment

Understand how our thorough assessments identify the root causes of back pain. We combine advanced testing with movement analysis to design targeted, effective treatment plans.

How long does a Precision Back Pain Assessment take?

Your comprehensive assessment typically lasts 2.5 to 3 hours and includes both evaluation and initial treatment. This thorough approach allows us to identify all your pain triggers, establish positions of relief, and begin your personalized recovery plan in a single session.

Will I need multiple sessions to see results?

Many clients experience immediate relief and gain valuable insights about their pain triggers during the first session. However, building lasting spine resilience typically requires follow-up sessions to progress through your personalized recovery plan safely.

What should I expect during the assessment?

You'll move through various positions and activities while we monitor your pain responses to identify specific triggers. We'll also establish safe positions that provide immediate relief and teach you exactly which movements to avoid during your recovery.

What makes this different from physical therapy or chiropractic care?

Our assessment follows Dr. McGill's research-proven methodology to identify your specific pain triggers before prescribing any exercises or treatments. Unlike generic approaches, we create a completely personalized plan based on your unique movement patterns and pain responses.

Can this help if I've had back pain for years?

Absolutely. Chronic back pain often persists because the root triggers haven't been properly identified. Our precision assessment can reveal long-standing movement patterns and compensations that perpetuate pain cycles, even after years of other treatments.

Is this approach safe if I have disc problems or other diagnosed conditions?

Our methodology is specifically designed to work safely with various spinal conditions, including disc issues. Our assessment identifies movements that protect your specific condition while building the stability needed for long-term spinal health.

QNRT and Chiropractic Therapy

Find out how QNRT and chiropractic care work together to reset neurological stress patterns and correct structural imbalances, creating a pathway to relief and resilience.

What is QNRT, and how does it work with chiropractic care?

QNRT (Quantum Neuro Reset Therapy) is a proprietary protocol that resets the brain's response to emotional triggers and trauma. When combined with chiropractic care, it addresses both the structural misalignments and the neurological patterns that contribute to dysfunction, providing more comprehensive healing.

What conditions can benefit from this integrated approach?

This therapy is particularly effective for chronic pain, stress-related disorders, trauma-related symptoms, autoimmune conditions, chronic fatigue, and cases where traditional treatments haven't provided lasting relief. The approach addresses both physical and neurological root causes to find solutions and healing.

How many sessions will I need to see results?

Many patients notice improvements within the first few sessions, with significant changes typically occurring within 4 to 6 treatments. The exact number depends on your individual condition, but Dr. Provencial will provide a clear treatment timeline based on your specific situation.

How is Dr. Provecial's approach different from traditional chiropractic care?

Dr. Provencial combines traditional chiropractic techniques with functional medicine insights and QNRT protocols. This integrative approach addresses not just spinal alignment, but also the emotional and neurological factors such as stress or trauma that may be contributing to your physical symptoms.

What should I expect during my first appointment

Your initial session includes comprehensive assessment of your health history, physical examination, and evaluation of stress and trauma patterns. Dr. Provencial will explain how your symptoms may be connected and develop an integrated treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Is this approach safe for people with serious health conditions?

Yes, Dr. Bethany Provencial's background in functional medicine allows her to work safely with complex health conditions. She takes a thorough health history and coordinates with your other healthcare providers when necessary to ensure the safest, most effective care possible.

InBody Body Composition

Get clarity on how InBody scans track muscle mass, body fat, and hydration. This precise data helps us measure progress, adjust your program, and optimize results.

How accurate is InBody compared to other body composition methods?

InBody technology shows 98% correlation with DEXA scan results and is significantly more accurate than traditional methods like BMI or basic body fat scales. It provides segmental analysis that reveals muscle and fat distribution patterns impossible to detect with other consumer-grade devices.

How often should I get an InBody scan?

We recommend scans every 2 to 4 weeks for those actively working on body composition changes, or monthly for general health monitoring. This frequency allows you to track meaningful changes while avoiding normal daily fluctuations in body water.

An InBody help me if I'm not trying to lose weight?

Absolutely. InBody is valuable for athletes monitoring training effectiveness, older adults tracking muscle preservation, people managing medical conditions, or anyone wanting to understand their body composition for optimal health regardless of weight goals.

What should I do to prepare for my InBody scan?

For the most accurate results, maintain normal hydration the day before, avoid intense exercise 12 hours prior, and come fasted if possible. Remove shoes, socks, and heavy clothing or outerwear. The scan takes just 60 seconds and provides immediate, detailed results.

What specific information will I learn from my InBody results?

You'll receive a detailed analysis of muscle mass by body segment, body fat percentage and distribution, total body water, basal metabolic rate, visceral fat level, and muscle-to-fat ratios. We'll explain what each metric means for your specific goals.

How does this integrate with my other services at Apex?

InBody results inform your entire wellness strategy at Apex. Whether you're doing MAT, personal training, or back pain assessment, understanding your body composition helps optimize treatment approaches and track the effectiveness of your interventions.

BEMER Circulation Therapy

See how BEMER uses pulsed electromagnetic fields to stimulate circulation, improve cellular oxygen delivery, and support faster recovery and overall vitality.

What is BEMER therapy and how does it work?

BEMER uses finely tuned electromagnetic fields to stimulate microcirculation—boosting blood flow in your smallest vessels. This enhanced circulation improves oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells, accelerates the removal of metabolic waste, and supports your body's natural healing processes.

What should I expect during a BEMER session?

BEMER sessions last just 8 minutes and involve lying comfortably while electromagnetic fields gently stimulate your microcirculation. The treatment is completely non-invasive with no side effects—many clients find it relaxing and energizing simultaneously.

Is BEMER safe for people with medical conditions?

BEMER is FDA-cleared and safe for most individuals. However, patients with certain medical conditions and those with implanted devices may require precautions. We'll review your complete health history to ensure BEMER therapy is appropriate for your specific situation.

How does BEMER integrate with my other treatments at Apex?

BEMER enhances the effectiveness of MAT, personal training, and back pain treatments by improving cellular function and recovery. Kate strategically incorporates BEMER sessions to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and optimize your body's response to other interventions.

How quickly will I notice results from BEMER therapy?

Many clients notice increased energy and better sleep within just a few sessions. Microcirculation begins improving within 8 minutes of treatment, while long-term benefits—like enhanced recovery, pain relief, and overall vitality—build steadily with regular use.

How often should I receive BEMER treatments?

Treatment frequency depends on your specific goals and condition. Many clients benefit from 2-3 sessions per week initially, with maintenance schedules adjusted based on your response. Our therapist will recommend the optimal frequency to support your individual wellness objectives.

Therapeutic Massage

Explore how our specialized massage techniques reduce tension, enhance mobility, and promote whole-body healing as part of your integrated wellness plan.

How does therapeutic massage at Apex differ from a spa massage?

Our massage therapy is designed to support movement function and complement your MAT, training, and back pain treatments. We prioritize therapeutic outcomes—improving tissue quality, accelerating recovery, and preparing your body for peak performance—not just relaxation.

How does massage complement my other treatments at Apex?

Massage prepares tissues for MAT activation, supports recovery between training sessions, and helps maintain the gains from your back pain treatment. The improved circulation and tissue quality from massage enhance your body's response to other interventions.

How often should I receive therapeutic massage?

Frequency depends on your specific goals and activity level. Many clients benefit from weekly sessions during intensive training periods or bi-weekly for maintenance. We'll recommend a schedule that supports your individual wellness objectives and integrates with your other treatments.

Which massage technique is right for my needs?

Your therapist will assess your specific concerns, movement patterns, and goals to recommend the most appropriate techniques. We may combine Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial release, and SMRT methods within a single session to address your individual needs most effectively.

What should I expect during my first massage session?

Your therapist will discuss your health history, current concerns, and goals before beginning treatment. We'll explain techniques as we work and adjust pressure based on your comfort level and therapeutic needs, ensuring an effective and comfortable experience.

Can massage help with chronic pain conditions?

Yes, therapeutic massage can be highly effective for chronic pain by addressing muscle tension, improving circulation, and supporting tissue health. When combined with your other Apex treatments, massage provides comprehensive support for managing and reducing chronic pain patterns.

1709 Mt. Vernon Rd,
Suite C Dunwoody, GA 30338
Get Directions

start your transformation

Every transformation here is personal - built on trust, precision, and the belief that your best movement is still ahead.

470-823-2228
kate@mat-atl.com
Mon - Thu
Fri
Sat - Sun
9 AM–6 PM
9 AM–3 PM
By appointment only