Question 1

What is McBride Athletic Recovery Center?

Accepted Answer

McBride Athletic Recovery Center (MARC) is a premier wellness and proactive athletic recovery studio in St. Louis, led by Aaron McBride, an athletic trainer and physical therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. MARC combines advanced wellness and athletic recovery technology with tailored personal training. We help clients move better, recover faster, and take a proactive approach to their long-term health and performance.

Question 2

Do you offer physical therapy?

Accepted Answer

We currently do not offer physical therapy services. Instead, we specialize in proactive recovery and personal training. Our focus is on achieving maximal functional output, building strength, and helping individuals find deep rejuvenation and lasting relief from daily stress using advanced, evidence-based tools. If you are under the care of a physical therapist, the team can help you understand where an appropriate MARC service may fit alongside that plan.

Question 3

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

Accepted Answer

No, you don't need a physician’s referral to get started at MARC. If you have specific health concerns or questions about whether a service is right for you, we recommend checking with your physician and giving our team a call before scheduling.

Question 4

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

MARC operates outside of traditional insurance, which means your recovery is never dictated by a third party. You get direct, uncompromised access to our premium services. You can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) card for some services and products. Contact your health insurance for specific details on your HSA/FSA coverage. Additionally, we have partnered with Cherry and CareCredit to offer 0% interest and low-interest buy now, pay later options so you can focus on your wellness now and pay over time.

Question 5

Do I need a membership?

Accepted Answer

No, we proudly offer all of our services without the requirement of a membership. Our goal is maximum accessibility, so you are free to utilize our services—from personal training to recovery tools—on your own time, exactly when your body needs it.

Question 6

How do I start personal training?

Accepted Answer

It all starts with a Fitness Assessment! This initial session helps us understand your goals and movement background so we can recommend the best training option for you—whether that’s traditional personal training or Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training.

Question 7

What is the difference between red light and laser therapy?

Accepted Answer

While both treatments use beneficial light wavelengths to boost cellular energy, they serve different purposes. Our Red Light Therapy bed and Vitality Suite surround your whole body with a combination of red and near-infrared wavelengths to soothe systemic inflammation, boost overall circulation, and support tissue repair. Our Class IV medical laser is a targeted treatment that delivers concentrated energy deep into specific soft tissue areas—pinpointing localized joint pain, muscle spasms, and stubborn stiffness right where you need it most. We have both options available so you can choose the power level and speed your body needs for optimal results.

Question 8

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Infrared Salt Sauna, Vitality Suite, and Red Light Therapy: maximum skin exposure, such as shorts and a sports bra for women or boxer briefs or shorts for men. Laser Therapy and Radial Pressure Wave (RPW) Therapy: loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the treatment area. 3D Body Scanning: form-fitting clothing, such as leggings or biker shorts with a sports bra for women, and boxer briefs or biker shorts for men. Personal Training: comfortable athletic apparel and supportive shoes that allow a full, unrestricted range of motion.

Question 9

What is the cancellation or late-arrival policy?

Accepted Answer

We know your time is valuable, and we want every second of your session to count. To ensure consistent, quality service and efficient scheduling for all clients, we charge a 50% service fee for appointments canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice. Arrivals more than 15 minutes past the scheduled time may require a reschedule. This helps ensure the next client receives their full, effective session without delay.

Question 10

Can I purchase a gift card?

Accepted Answer

Yes! A MARC gift card is the perfect way to give the gift of recovery and lasting relief. You can purchase one online or in our studio.

Question 11

Does MARC have a referral program?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Give a reward, get a reward: refer a friend to McBride Athletic Recovery Center and enjoy a reward on a future visit. Your friend will receive a special discount for their first appointment. Terms and conditions apply.

Question 12

How do I book an athletic recovery or wellness session?

Accepted Answer

Select your treatment and book online or call our front desk at 314-698-2211. Our team is here to help you get scheduled, answer any questions, and guide you through a seamless recovery experience from start to finish.

Question 13

Where is MARC located and when is it open?

Accepted Answer

MARC is located at 2705 Dougherty Ferry Rd., Ste. 104, St. Louis, MO 63122. Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with appointments booked online or by phone.

Your Athletic Recovery and Personal Training Questions, Answered

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