Don't let injuries stop you from training

Whether you’re someone who enjoys exercise or an athlete, it’s likely that you will deal with injuries at some point in your fitness journey or athletic career.

When that happens, you don’t necessarily have to stop training. While pausing training may provide some short-term pain relief, it does not address the underlying problem. Therefore when you return, you often experience the same pain.

Instead of stopping your training all together, try the following instead:

Tip #1: Reduce your volume. 

Reducing the total distance that you swim, run, or cycle or the number of training sessions you attend may allow you to maintain your current aerobic capacity while providing some rest to your injury.

Tip #2: Reduce your intensity. 

Rather than training at 80-90% maximum effort, opt for 40-60% effort. Reducing your intensity will reduce tension and muscle engagement which may allow for pain relief.

Tip #3: Prioritize drills and technique. 

Often times, injuries stem from improper technique combined with repetition. Slow down your stroke and focus on drills and technique that will promote proper form.

Here are 3 freestyle drills swimmers should never skip.

Tip #4: Focus on your kick. 

If you deal with an upper body or back injury, modify your training so you can provide rest to your injury while strengthening other areas. You can apply this same concept to performing a pull set if you have a lower body injury.

Tip #5: Start strength training.

Strength training is one of the best ways to fortify your body against injuries. When you injured, it is often a sign that your body is no longer able to compensate for muscle imbalances, poor technique, etc at your current workload.

It is never too early to begin, especially if your goals are to perform and compete injury-free.

Don’t have a program? Join the Hybrid Performance Team where you’ll receive 5 days of strength and mobility training all at your fingertips.

💥 Limited-time offer: 10% off your first TWO months with code HYBRIDPERFORM10

Have questions about your swimming injury symptoms, technique, or pre-race strategies? Need guidance on navigating the healthcare system for answers?

Schedule your Virtual Sports & Orthopedic Consultation today!

As always, leave feedback by replying to this email. I love sharing the wealth of knowledge and I’m glad I get to share it with you!

Until next time,

Sandra

PS - You don’t have the same body as the person next to you. So why would you train the same way as them? Tailor your training and nutrition so it fits YOU instead of doing cookie-cutter programs that offer mediocre results. Sign up for 1:1 coaching with me.

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