How to Overcome Your Gym Injury

Written by
Dawn Fletcher
Aches, pain, discomfort and soreness are all parts of being an athlete. But beyond the physical limitations, injuries also take a mental toll.

If you’re in a situation where you can’t train the way you want to, it’s easy to feel down and frustrated. Without the gym, you may feel like you’ve lost a sense of identity, a source of positive self-esteem and your main form of stress relief.

This is completely normal—the key is being aware of your mental state and making positive mental changes to improve.
Cry, throw a tantrum and be upset.
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First things first, let it out, especially to your support team. It's imperative that you voice your emotions as part of dealing with your injury. Remember, it's normal to feel this way.

Indulge in these emotions for a little so that you can move on.
Pick up an old or new hobby.
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Try and pick something that is not related to your sport or training. This may be something you've put on the backburner for a while or a brand new hobby you've always wanted to try.

This will help you fill your time as you heal.
Seek care and treatment.
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Pursue the right care, and work with doctors or physical therapists if your injury requires it. If you have a less serious or common injury, like a strained hamstring, spend some time searching online for best practices to heal yourself.

Never stop finding a way to improve your day-to-day condition.
Don't forget stress relief.
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Fitness is often how we blow off steam. While you take some time off, make sure to find an equally stress-relieving activity to restore and rejuvenate you. Do yoga, meditate, read or spend time in nature. It's whatever fits your personal preference.
Make goals.
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Just because you're injured doesn't mean you can't set goals. It doesn't matter how small they are. Pick something you currently struggle with and set achievable goals, whether for now or in the future when you've recovered.
Get physically good at something else.
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If your leg is out of commission, build your upper body by working on pull-ups, dips and heavy presses. If you normally run, focusing on becoming a better swimmer.

If you're unable to use your body at all, you might want to focus on learning a new language or picking up another new skill.
Don't play the comparison game.
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Comparing yourself to your old, uninjured self or to anyone around you isn't going to help. You are you, today. A person who is fully capable of doing what you can, right now, to maintain or improve your condition.
Write things down.
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This means therapy appointments, workouts and even positive thoughts, so that you can see, feel and reflect on your growth, both physically and mentally.

Search for success stories—not horror stories—about others who have been in a similar predicament and overcame or found the silver lining.
Hire a coach.
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Hire someone who can work with you on creating and monitoring goals and redefining your mission. A coach can also help you workout more efficiently and correct your form to prevent future injury.

This person should encourage your growth and improvement, both physically and mentally.
Be positive and focus on what you can control.
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You can look at your injury as a major blow or as a blessing in disguise that allows you to spend time on something else you've been neglecting. You can't always control the injury itself, but you can control your response.


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About the Author

Dawn Fletcher ACTIVE.com Contributor
Dawn Fletcher is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach, CrossFit Level 3 Coach and the owner of MENTALITYWOD.com. She has been helping individuals reach their fitness and performance goals for over 10 years. Connect with her on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for free tips and insight on how to be your best.