Julien Remillieux

Can you introduce yourself?

"My name is Julien Remillieux, I'm 30 years old and I'm a sports physiotherapist. I grew up in Moselle, studied in Nancy and now live in Chambéry. With two parents who are teachers, including my father who is a sports teacher, I have practiced several competitive sports apart from climbing (notably tennis, judo and trail running). I'm passionate about sports, but more generally I like to learn new things, in every field.

What made you decide to become a physiotherapist?

"When I was in high school, I hesitated for a long time, because I was curious and attracted by a wide variety of backgrounds. My older brother had started studying to become a physiotherapist, and as I found out more about it, I quickly felt drawn to the profession. I'd also had the experience of visiting a physiotherapist several times as a patient, and I rather liked it. Today, I'm very happy with my choice.

How long have you been practising?

"I graduated in 2015, initially working in different regions and practices doing locums before settling in Chambéry in 2019. I then looked for a sports physiotherapy practice where I felt comfortable and settled there in 2022."

Why this focus on climbing? What about cycling?

"When I graduated as a physiotherapist, I was climbing very regularly. I did a dissertation on the prevention of pulley injuries and loved the subject. From that moment on, I had in mind to take care of climbing patients once I was settled, which I was soon able to set up in Chambéry.  

I didn't get into cycling until later, as it was initially more my partner's world. Just after graduating as a sports physiotherapist (my partner is also a physiotherapist), we were able to join the staff of a cycling team and were trained in the postural study of cyclists. We continue to evolve in this environment, working since early 2023 for the Décathlon AG2R La Mondiale team.  

I enjoy being in contact with top-level athletes, including in cycling, and it also allows me to diversify my practice even further. I think that's important, and I don't really like routine. 

How long have you been climbing?

"I don't remember exactly, because I started at a very young age with my parents and my older brother, who practised assiduously.

On the other hand, I've had periods when I climbed more or less. My student days were when I climbed the most, taking part in competitions and reaching a level of 8a in cliff climbing.

Then I took a break for a few years and did a lot of ultra-trail running like the Diagonale des fous. Since I've been in Chambéry, I'm less relentless in one discipline or another, and I'm more of a 'leisure' runner."

What's your best memory as a physiotherapist?

"It's not easy! As a physiotherapist, I think it was a patient's thanks that really touched me when I was still a student during an internship. It made me realize just how important this profession could be. As far as climbing is concerned, I have a great memory of the European Senior Climbing Cup in Chambéry in 2023, for which I was able to be a physiotherapist, provide some care and meet some great people. "

What's your best memory as a climber?

"It's definitely the French university championships I took part in at Tours in 2014. I had done the difficulty and speed events, trained hard for this competition and after a satisfactory result in diff' I was the last qualifier for the speed finals. I faced Thomas Joannes in the quarter-finals and felt privileged and happy to be able to try and compete with a climber who already had a reputation. I gave it my all with no pressure, and I still have great memories of that moment and the atmosphere, but there's no need to reveal the result!"

More and more climbers are getting their information via the networks. What role do you give to social networks in spreading your message?

"Today, you can't overlook the importance and impact of social networks. That's why when I wanted to reach more climbers I quickly got on instagram even though I didn't even have an active personal account. It's certainly been useful and I try to continue posting regularly. On the other hand, you have to be very careful about what you say to make sure that the information you give is properly understood and that it can't be hijacked. That's not always easy!

What does the phrase "live your sport better" mean to you?

"To live your sport better is also to know your body better. You need to know how to adapt your practice, take the time to progress, be aware of your capacities and make choices in line with your objectives. All with the aim of a healthy practice (for body and mind!) by minimizing the risk of short- and long-term injuries."

Do you have any other hobbies apart from climbing?

"I love all outdoor activities. At the moment, I particularly enjoy trail riding and cycling, and very occasionally mountaineering or canyoning. Apart from that, I really enjoy doing DIY around wood, with furniture for my home or even tools for the practice!"

Do you have any plans/ideas for the coming years that you'd like to share?

"I have lots of ideas, but not necessarily the time to do everything! My next big project is to develop a training course for physiotherapists on climbing pathologies, for late 2024 / early 2025. I'd also like to offer a different version for coaches. In the near future I'd also like to be able to offer more remote treatment and advice, because I think that if it's done well, it can be very relevant."