The Movement Driven Podcast: The Tactical Athlete Conversation

November 5, 2025

Bridging the gap between service and self-care for the heroes who protect our communities.

In this powerful episode of The Movement Driven Podcast, Dr. Greg Goldberger sits down with Elza Van Niekerk to discuss an often-overlooked group of athletes: the tactical athletes who protect and serve our communities. 

From military personnel to firefighters and police officers, these men and women put their bodies on the line every day, yet their own movement health and recovery are frequently neglected.

Elza shares her passion for supporting tactical athletes through preventative and performance-based physical therapy, her experience working with service members and first responders in Jacksonville, and how early intervention could change lives and careers. 

Together, the team explores common injuries seen in boot camp and beyond, how Movement Driven tailors care to the unique physical and mental demands of tactical professionals, and why workplace wellness and holistic health matter in every setting; from the field to the office.

If you’ve ever wondered how physical therapy supports those who serve, or how movement can build both resilience and recovery, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the people who protect us and what it takes to keep them moving.

🎧 Key Topics Covered:
  • What defines a tactical athlete
  • Common injuries and overlooked prevention opportunities in the military
  • How holistic physical therapy benefits first responders
  • The connection between mental and physical recovery
  • The Army’s new Holistic Health & Fitness (H2F) program
  • How Movement Driven’s workplace wellness initiative supports better movement for every profession

🎯 Ideal For:
Military service members, veterans, first responders, healthcare professionals, and anyone passionate about bridging the gap between recovery and performance.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube to hear the full conversation.
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