Adapt to Injury to Challenge Myself Again

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Modern Warrior Vision

My mission for 2016 is to work with my torn ACL and other health issues, in order to return to my love…obstacle course racing. Discovering OCRs was amazing for me, both physically and mentally. I found an activity that challenged me, made me feel powerful, and gave me joy. All of those things carried over to other areas of my life, both personally and professionally. My workouts are an extension of this. Aside from helping me perform better in the activity, they also challenge me. I no longer want the health issues that have plagued me over the last year to be my “challenge.” Instead I choose my battle and adjust my line of attack!

Although the pic I chose is not of injury or the goals listed below, it is indicative of my ultimate goal of returning to OCRs. It was just a little race, but it is amazing how much a “little race” can drive you.

Target Goal: Cardio

  • Successfully complete the full 8-week, C25K run program as prescribed (3x a week).
  • Walk on alternate days (3x a week), incorporating incline walks on the treadmill.

Running, by far, is one of the greatest challenges for me and because of that it also brings great joy every time I accomplish a run. Because of my prior inability to run wisely with my ACL, I have dealt with extreme setbacks, both physically and mentally. I will know I have reached my goal once I have completed the plan without having to take major time off due to an aggravated knee.

Walking regularly helps to keep the parts “oiled” and is easier on the joints. I will have reached it when I am able to sustain an hour walk that includes a 20-minute incline. True test will be a hike on the inner trails with hills at the park I like to go to.

Target Goal: Isometric

  • Successfully complete the full 8-week, C25K run program as prescribed (3x a week).
  • Walk on alternate days (3x a week), incorporating incline walks on the treadmill.

Push-ups were one of my first milestones and I have not been able to do them this past year. Like running, if I do not do them regularly I quickly lose the ability. Tendonitis has plagued me, but I believe they are possible if I do not overdue it. I will know I have achieved it because I am almost certain a tear will be shed once it is done again. It shows I have continued to regularly work my upper body

Tai chi and kicks help me address my current issues with balance. Regular practice will help me find my “center” in other activities and eliminate falls. Also, they both help target imbalances in my lower body due to my ACL.

How will I ‘Prove it!’

Take video of me doing as many full push-ups as I can.