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An injury is a nightmare for many people, especially those who follow a strict workout routine. While you may be eager to return to the gym with the same intensity you had before your injury, this is one of the worst things you can do. Your body needs time to adjust back into your routine. Failure to do so can lead to serious, life-altering injuries. Be sure to follow my 4 tips below for an effective and safe return to your training!
1. The Return Should Happen Slowly But Surely
Just because you were cleared for physical activity does not mean that your body is prepared to go back to the routine you had before your injury. The total time needed for a complete return depends on how long your injury had you sidelined. For example, if your injury stopped you from training for 2 weeks, it should take 2 weeks for you to return to your normal format. Of course, for a more serious injury, you may need more time to ease back into things. It’s crucial that you talk with your doctor about this and follow his or her instructions!
2. The Return Should Be at a Lower Intensity
Because your body has received a ton of rest, you may perform quite well on your first day back. Don’t take this as a sign to resume things as normal! To ensure you make a full, safe recovery, you should work out at half the pace as before. Then, week after week, be sure to slowly increase the intensity of your workouts. Most importantly, listen to your body! Even if you think you should be able to handle something, if your body is telling you otherwise, it’s best to listen.
3. Reassess Your Goals
It’s important to set goals for yourself in all aspects of life, but especially when it comes to your fitness routine. If your injury sidelines you for 2 weeks, however, you’re going to need to re-evaluate and come up with new goals to make sure you’re successful. You cannot make up for the lost time by trying to work extra in the weeks following your return to the gym. Doing this will only increase your chances of getting injured again. This time, it could result in a serious injury that can potentially ruin your chances of ever returning to your old intensity.
4. Enjoy the Journey!
No matter why you’re training, part of it has to be because you love pushing yourself and seeing what you’re capable of doing. Unfortunately, injuries are sometimes part of the training journey. Don’t give up! I truly believe the biggest deciding factor in how well you can come back from an injury is your own perspective. What may have been easy to do before your injury may not be feasible now. Stay positive and be grateful for each accomplishment. Don’t take your body for granted!
Get Back Into Training With Help from the Megna Method
Have you recently sustained an injury? I can help you get back on track! With the Megna Method, I will create a personalized success plan, which is determined based on your strengths and weaknesses, commitment and capabilities. Don’t waste time wondering if your routine will help you ease back into training after an injury. Be sure to contact me today for my expert opinion!
