With nearly 15 years experience in physical therapy, strength training and women’s health, Kristen aims to help people move better and live longer.
Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master Coach who uses a “movement is medicine” approach to help people move better, live longer, and support women through pregnancy and postpartum.
Kristen Lettenberger, Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master Coach, approaches working from a lens that goes beyond getting fit. Kristen’s motto, “Movement is medicine,” was inspired by her passion for physical therapy and fitness and derived from her powerlifting background, playing sports, and rehab work.
She advocates for optimal pelvic floor health in men and women and specializes in women’s health, including pregnancy and postpartum, helping women adapt their bodies to accommodate their new normal.
We had a chance to discuss Kristen's journey to fitness and Bodybuilding.com. Here’s what she said.
My name is Kristen Lettenberger, and I am a movement specialist and Doctor of Physical Therapy committed to helping people move better and live healthier lives.
My fitness journey began in childhood—I loved climbing trees and riding bikes. I played travel softball in high school and spent time in the weight room. My passion for movement grew during college and solidified when I worked alongside a physical therapist.
I was inspired by the profound impact that physical therapy can have on people's lives. Working closely with a physical therapist showed me how rehabilitation and strength training go hand in hand—resistance training is crucial for effective rehabilitation. This led me to pursue a career as a movement specialist.
I love primarily strength-based resistance movements—anything involving a barbell or kettlebell. I used to compete, focusing on deadlifts, squats, and bench presses.
Working out is often unintentional and lacks focus, while training is purposeful and goal-oriented—whether preparing for a race, achieving a specific physique, or setting personal records.
Being strong means being mentally and physically prepared to face any challenge—for example, my experience during childbirth. It’s about resilience—whether lifting heavy weights or conquering life’s hurdles.
Training is essential for me; it boosts my dopamine (feel good hormone) levels and improves my sleep, creating a positive feedback loop. It makes me feel better overall.
Currently, my routine is more about enjoyment and recovery as I rehabilitate post-pregnancy. I aim for a high-protein diet—around 130 grams of protein and prioritize complete animal-based proteins—but I am not overly rigid about my diet. I train at least four times a week, focusing on resistance and strength training. On recovery days, I do mobility work and pelvic floor activation and enjoy activities like cycling or walking.
I take a multivitamin, fish oil, creatine, and vitamin D to support my training. My favorite Bodybuilding.com supplements are the Signature BCAA in Blackberry Lime and the Signature 100% Whey Protein, Oatmeal Cookie flavor—it is so good mixed in coffee!
Bodybuilding.com provided me with my first workout routines and taught me foundational principles of strength training. It was a key resource in building my early training habits and becoming strong.
Be as consistent as possible. Don’t rely solely on motivation; focus on building habits. Start small with activities you enjoy—like joining a group fitness class. Gradually increase your commitment—maybe you start with one workout a week—then build from there.
Don’t beat yourself up too much; it all works out in the end.
