In our latest episode of the Westside Barbell Podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Shawn Bailey, our team physician. Dr. Bailey and his team work tirelessly to ensure our athletes have access to comprehensive healthcare, including primary care, physical therapy, recovery, and sports science testing.

Here, we share his invaluable insights on optimizing athlete health, derived from years of experience and dedication to the field.

Understanding the Healthcare System

Dr. Bailey’s journey into medicine began with a passion for science and helping others. However, he quickly realized the shortcomings of the healthcare system during his medical training. The traditional approach often focuses on reactive care rather than proactive measures. Dr. Bailey emphasizes the need for a shift towards prevention and optimization, especially for athletes.

The Athlete-Centric Approach

One of Dr. Bailey’s core philosophies is to treat every patient as an athlete. This means applying the same physiological principles used for elite athletes to everyone, regardless of their fitness level. Proper nutrition, exercise, and recovery are crucial components of this approach. Here are some key points he discussed:

1. Nutrition as Fuel:

   • Viewing food as fuel for the body.
   • Ensuring proper nutrition to optimize performance and overall health.
   • Using tools like DEXA scans to measure body composition and tailor nutritional plans.

2. Comprehensive Assessments:

   • Conducting thorough assessments to understand an athlete's metabolic health, cardiovascular fitness, and body composition.
   • Using DEXA scans, VO2 max testing, and detailed lab tests to gather data.
   • Identifying potential risks and areas for improvement through these assessments.

3. Importance of Recovery:

   • Emphasizing the role of sleep and recovery in maintaining peak performance.
   • Addressing lifestyle factors such as stress and overtraining that can impact health.
   • Developing personalized recovery plans to prevent injuries and promote healing.

Proactive Healthcare for Athletes

Dr. Bailey advocates for a proactive approach to healthcare, focusing on prevention and optimization rather than just treating illnesses. This includes:

1. Prehabilitation:

   • Implementing measures to prevent injuries before they occur.
   • Working closely with physical therapists and strength coaches to design effective training and recovery programs.

2. Personalized Care:

   • Understanding each athlete’s unique goals and challenges.
   • Providing tailored advice and continuous monitoring to ensure optimal health and performance.

3. Education and Empowerment:

   • Educating athletes on the importance of nutrition, exercise, and recovery.
   • Encouraging open communication and honesty to address any health concerns effectively.

Changing the Healthcare Model

Dr. Bailey’s ultimate goal is to revolutionize the healthcare delivery model, making it more accessible and effective for everyone. His practice offers a membership-based model that provides comprehensive care at an affordable price. This approach ensures that patients receive the best possible care without the limitations of traditional insurance-based models.

Final Thoughts 

Optimizing athlete health requires a holistic and proactive approach. By focusing on nutrition, comprehensive assessments, and recovery, athletes can achieve peak performance and maintain their health. Dr. Bailey’s insights provide a valuable roadmap for anyone looking to improve their health and performance.