MUSCLE
Activation
Technique (MAT)

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.