You know the coolest thing about elevators?

The last couple of weeks haven’t gone exactly to plan, but it has allowed me to freshen up for the next block of training. The last 2k’s at Fremantle did strain my calf, so spent a bit of time resting and getting it right. This generally includes massage, stretching, ice baths, weights, foam rollers, yoga, compression and Sheldon at CBD wellness poking 18 little needles into me, walking is always a little awkward afterwards.

I was lucky to move into a coaching role with Stadium Tri Club after breaking my pelvis three years ago. It has given me a bit of an opportunity to see how other athletes deal with injuries, Yes can be quite funny as they usually over react!

There is nothing worse than an endurance athlete who can’t train due to one little injury, it will turn a positive athlete into a negative, “the world is against me”, grumpy buggar! Yep that’s right I had one of these moments this week. Consistency is the key and I could sense it slipping away with calf issues. As usual a trip to see John Annear at Sportsmed Subi and then Budgie for some bike fit corrections (my bad) and everything is ok again. I can only laugh looking back at it.

I have had a lot of injuries post the hip fracture, around 10 different leg problems from memory (a few of them more than once). But when you’re out for a long time the frustration isn’t as intense, you realize it’s going to be awhile before your racing at your best. Yep it’s still frustrating and there were certainly some bad days, but there is no time deadline to get ready for a race and there are plenty of little goals you have to tick off in rehab.

I was told by friends and had noticed myself that I was dealing with the injuries well. Now I’m getting back towards my best the frustration of missing sessions is…… intense again.

Anyway here are a few tips for when you’re injured (I’m an expert)

1.       Get it diagnosed and know what you’re up against and ask lots of questions

2.       Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t do. Three sports, you can still work on one at least

3.       Look for alternatives, if you can’t run try water running or on the cross trainer

4.       Work on your weaknesses, for me it’s a chance to improve my swim

5.       Hit the gym and improve strength. It will help your run, bike, swim and prevent future injuries

6.       Focus on technique to improve efficiency

7.       And lastly aim to come back a better athlete, not the same

Back to the elevators

My name is always in lights ;)

G