So You Got Yourself Injured and Now You Are Afraid? What Not to Do When Going Back to Training.

"Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it." – Michael Jordan

Returning to training after an injury can be daunting, especially when fear holds you back from certain movements or techniques. Unfortunately, it's something many athletes have to face but are not equipped to deal with, nor are their coaches typically.

So You Got Yourself Injured and Now You Are Afraid?
What Not to Do When Going Back to Training

As an athlete you face the risk of getting injured. You've probably been injured at least once before and had no issues after. But for many athletes there comes the time when they have healed from an injury and are fit enough to return to their training but suddenly are afraid of doing certain movements. An accident can be traumatizing as can ongoing pain, so unfortunately becoming afraid of doing what you love can be a trauma response. Some athletes face the fear of reinjuring themselves others can't get the memories of the initial accident out of their head. What is true for all is that they've lost their confidence and need to regain it as it is crucial for performance,

There are certain pitfalls to avoid when you're trying to overcome your fear. And you as well as your coach should be aware of them.

1. Denying Your Fear

Ignoring or denying your fear of certain movements or techniques is counterproductive. It’s natural to feel apprehensive after an injury. Acknowledge your fear as a valid emotion and a normal part of the recovery process and get to make a plan to overcome it. Learn what you can about fear, the underlying causes and how to get over it.

2. Avoiding Confrontation

Avoiding the movements or techniques that trigger fear can perpetuate anxiety and hinder progress. But unfortunately, that is what fear is set out to do: Try to get you to avoid the things you fear. You will need discipline in doing it anyway, but in a controlled and progessive manner. It might feel like you're taking baby steps. Babysteps however will get you to your goal. Overloading and overwhelming yourself won't. And isn't it good that as an athlete discipline is probably your middle name? Because you will need it.

3. Neglecting Preparation

Returning to training without mental preparation can amplify fear. Engage in mental skills training such as visualization, relaxation techniques, and positive self-talk to build confidence and alleviate anxiety. When you get the chance learn self-hypnosis and get in touch with a trauma-informed mental performance coach to learn techniques, that help you overcome this setback in your career as an athlete as fast as possible.

4. Isolating Yourself

Attempting to overcome fear alone can be isolating and overwhelming. Seek support from someone who can provide encouragement and practical strategies for managing fear effectively. It is important that you find someone you can trust who also has a deep understanding of fear after an injury and how to overcome it. If you cannot confine in your coach, get someone who is in your corner and can coach you through the process of getting back in the game.

5. Rushing the Process

Rushing back into intense training or expecting immediate results can increase fear and anxiety. You learned to be afraid. Everything you learned you can unlearn or rather learn something else instead. But in order to learn something we need to stay within our window of tolerance and not get stressed and overwhelmed. If you're being told by your coach just do it and you will see it's working but you are panicking inside, it can really make matters worth and prolong you fear. Instead embrace a gradual approach, set realistic goals and celebrate small victories along the way. I know you want to get back to what you're used to as soon as possible but overloeading yourself won't get you there.

6. Ignoring Professional Guidance

Neglecting to consult with professionals trained in sports psychology and mental performance coaching can prolong fear and hinder progress. Look for someone you feel you can trust and who just gets you and who knows about trauma and fear and the recovery process from both. It's an added bonus when they also work with hypnosis because it's scientifically proven to work extremely fast in overcoming fear. Utilize their expertise to develop personalized strategies for you and your training regimen.

Conclusion

Returning to training after an injury can be daunting, especially when fear holds you back from certain movements or techniques. By avoiding these common pitfalls—denying your fear, avoiding confrontation, neglecting preparation, isolating yourself, rushing the process, and ignoring professional guidance—you can navigate this challenge effectively. Embrace a patient and structured approach, supported by mental skills training and professional assistance, to regain confidence and achieve your athletic goals. Remember, overcoming fear is a process that requires patience, perseverance, and the right support system. You have the resilience to overcome this hurdle and excel in your sport once again. And with the right person guiding you thorugh this process you will pull through much faster than on your own.