Motivation is as important as time in making a quick return from injury. If you’re not focused on recovery and treating your broken self with a new respect, you’re liable to prolong the healing process and turn your injury into a long-term pain. These 5 ways to stay motivated during recovery will help you stay focused on getting healthy and get you safely back into the game with a vengeance.
1. Physical Therapy
If warranted, seek out a physical therapist that you can trust and work through the pain. As you regain strength and mobility, you will naturally be more optimistic and excited.
2. Stay Involved
Stay connected to your peers. Support your team or volunteer at local events. Staying connected to your sport will keep you focused on making a swift recovery. As a bonus, your friends may be supportive and you can share what you’ve learned so they can avoid the same mistakes.
3. Media
I’m not a fan of TV but there are many other ways to keep your head in the game. Search YouTube for motivational videos and revive that old magazine habit. Reading about other athlete’s injuries, struggles and successes will remind you that you’re not alone in your struggle for recovery.
4. Cross Train
If not immediately, begin cross training as soon as you can to maintain your cardiovascular fitness and strength. Skip activities that cause pain and consult your physical therapist or physician. Walking, biking and swimming are excellent aerobic exercises that keep you off your feet but still give you a good workout.
5. Stay Hungry
This is one of my personal favorites. When your long-awaited return arrives, ease into it! By establishing a habit but denying myself the pleasure of overdoing any given workout, every workout leaves me hungry for more. This significantly reduces my chance of reinjury and keeps me excited for full recovery when I can finally leave it all on the trails.
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