Built by Athletes.
For Athletes.
Fortitude & Freedom was founded on a simple belief: athletes deserve a provider who understands what it means to push the human limit.
Why We Exist
Fortitude & Freedom was born out of frustration with a broken system. Too many patients spending too little time with their provider, getting vague answers about their bodies, and walking away with cookie-cutter treatment plans that delivered temporary relief at best. Dr. Jake Pawol built this practice to be the opposite of that.
Here, you get quality time with your provider, clear communication about what's happening in your body, and treatment techniques that create lasting changes — not band-aids. We use movement and fitness to unlock your body's natural ability to heal, recover, and perform at its highest level.
Our clinic is equipped with a full gym because rehab should happen where you train — under a barbell, on a platform, in the environment where you actually perform. That's what sets us apart, and that's what gets results.
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Dr. Jake Pawol, PT, DPT, OCS
"I live the lifestyle I prescribe."
Jake earned his Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Des Moines University. He is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) — a distinction held by fewer than 10% of physical therapists in the country.
As a competitive lifter himself, Jake understands the real demands of training at a high level. He founded Fortitude & Freedom because he was tired of seeing athletes told to "just rest" by providers who don't understand what it means to push the human limit. Your rehab takes place in a real gym, using real equipment, because that's where athletes belong.
Outside the clinic, Jake lives in West Des Moines with his wife and four children. He's active in his church, and when he's not treating patients or training, you'll find him outdoors — hunting, fishing, or exploring with his family.
"My goal isn't to get you back to normal. It's to get you back to being elite."
4 Stages of Recovery
Every patient follows a structured path from pain to performance. No guesswork — just a proven framework designed to get you back to doing what you love.
Pain
Minimize Pain & Inflammation
Prime
Restore Mobility, Flexibility, & Strength
Perform
Return to Normal Function & Activity
Prevent
Maintenance & Prevention of Injury
Our Vision, Mission & Values
Vision
To transform how the world pursues health and longevity.
Mission
We empower people to use movement and fitness to unlock their body's natural healing — so they can recover, grow, and reach their full potential.
Our Promise
Every person who walks through our doors leaves stronger, more confident, and equipped to move freely and live fully.
Core Values
Serve
We put others first by listening deeply, meeting people where they are, and going above and beyond to help them succeed in their recovery and life.
Excellence
We pursue the highest standards in everything we do—continually learning, refining our craft, and delivering exceptional care and results.
Relationships
We build trust through genuine connection, consistent communication, and meaningful investment in every person we serve.
Health
We lead by example and actively pursue physical, mental, and spiritual well-being—empowering others to do the same through movement and lifestyle.
Your Comeback Starts Here.
Ready to train through recovery with a provider who gets it? Let's talk.