Getting sidelined from training sucks, no doubt.
That is, if we are willing to truly listen and learn what theyre telling us.
Injuries expose our weaknesses, both physical and mental, and encourage our vulnerabilities to come to light.
Getty Images / Patcharanan Worrapatchareeroj
Opportunities to step back, reassess, and move smarter abound.
But lets be honest: you’ve got the option to do everything right and sometimes shit happens.
I hope you never get injured.
And if you do, I hope its nothing serious.
Before we get into these life lessons, I just want to emphasize that Im not a medical doctor.
And every body, every injury, every circumstance is different.
So c’mon know that none of this should be taken as medical advice.
Below, nine things I learned the hard way that I hope you could learn the easier way.
Focus on prevention and preparation as your foundation.
The absolute best way to come back from an injury is to not get one in the first place.
Prevention and preparation overlap to some degree, though there are a few differences.
Preparation is about getting your body primed to do the work youre asking of it.
Seek help when something feels not quite right.
The correct, educated diagnosis is crucial.
For instance, if I have an issue with my foot, I go straight to a podiatrist.
It often streamlines the process, and tends to be a better use of time-money-copays.
Depression and anxiety can accompany injuries, especially for those that take longer to heal.
Seeking guidance early can help you deal with whatever feelings accompany the injury or recovery process.
Analyze the data your injury is giving you.
Data is your friend!
Maybe its telling you that you’re overdoing it.
Whatever it is, take notes.
Was it instantaneous or over a certain period of time?
When does it hurt?
Go back to the basics.
Our bodies are incredibly smart; they will find a way to do the activity if at all possible.
That doesnt mean we are doing it effectively or efficiently.
Relearning (or maybe even learning for the first time!)
which muscles should be engaging when, and then practicing that engagement will help you return quicker andbonusmuch stronger.
Build or rebuild that foundation and check for cracks often.
Move your body in ways that encourage healing.
Rushing the process wont help you get back to exercise sooner.
That doesnt mean you necessarily have to do absolutelynothingthoughwhich actually might be daunting emotionally or mentally.
Just check that you dont take it too far and overdo it.
Find a new focus.
Maybe you emphasize your mobility or strength versus speed or agility (or vice versa).
Maybe its solely that you focus on the rehab exercises that your PT gave you.
Listen intently to your body.
But especially as you are healing and coming back from injury.
Your body gives you lots of cues every day.
Pain is a cue, and so understanding the nuances of pain is vital.
I always ask my doctor, WhatshouldntI feel?
There are likely new needs!
Restart slowlyand expect reentry to look a bit different.
After an injury, you likely won’t be jumping back in right where you left off.
Take it easy and gradual, and try not to compare pre-injury performance to your performance during recovery.
Recovery is not the time for PRs; its the time to heal, mend, and rebuild.
Work with your professional to determine a timeline for your return to activity.
Let yourself feel all the feelings.
The recovery process can be frustrating.
It can be infuriating.
It can be scary.
It can be overwhelming.
Its okay to feel the feelings.
Release your emotionsdont hold them in, as that will only bring more stress into your body.
Dont be afraid to ask for help.
And find ways to feel some joy and hope to keep you going.
And finding joy doesnthaveto be related to your exercise, either.
If youre currently injured, I am sending you all the love and healing.
Honor the process and your body.
If you are already back to your normal routine, keep these lessons in mind.
Step back and reassess before old, unhelpful patterns seep back in.
If you are looking to avoid injury (arent we all!)
may you continue to move mindfully.
