How do astronauts stay strong and healthy in space? What happens to their muscles and bones when gravity disappears? In this episode, we talk with NASA’s human performance team — Danielle Anderson (PT) and Corey Houston (S&C coach) — about training, rehab, and performance optimization in spaceflight. Physical therapists, strength coaches, and healthcare professionals will walk away with actionable insights for Earth-bound performance too.
👨🚀 Whether you’re in a clinic or coaching athletes, these NASA lessons matter.
👉 Brought to you by PT Pintcast Media — Launch your own podcast with our help: https://www.ptpintcast.com
📍 CHAPTERS & TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 – Intro
01:40 – What it's like to train astronauts
05:23 – Monitoring load in microgravity
08:47 – Preventing injuries in space
11:02 – Rehab without gravity: Why rest isn’t an option
14:15 – What data NASA tracks for astronaut fitness
17:44 – Countermeasures: NASA's space workout gear
21:36 – Challenges of exercise hardware in space
25:50 – Preparing for Artemis: New suits, new problems
28:03 – Lessons every PT can steal from NASA
33:41 – Parting Shot: Teamwork on Earth & beyond
