How soon after surgery or injury should I attend a gym?
You will need to gain approval from your physician or surgeon first and this may take a matter of days or weeks. Once you are sufficiently healed and your doctor has given you the all-clear for training, you can start working with your Rē therapist in the gym. Start gently and do not try to push yourself too hard at first, as this can hamper your recovery in the long run.
How long should I spend in a rehabilitation gym session?
At first your sessions in the gym may be relatively short, lasting 15-30 minutes. As your recovery progresses, this may build up to an hour. It’s important to continue your exercises at home, as directed by your therapist, as repetition will build strength and re-train your muscles.
How much of a difference can gym sessions really make to recovery?
It’s hard to over-emphasize how crucial stretching, exercising and retraining your body are after injury or surgery; they really are the cornerstone in your recovery process. Your therapist will show you how to stretch and rebuild muscle strength and improve balance, thus regaining flexibility and freedom of movement so that you can return to full health and activity without causing further damage. This in turn leads to optimal physical and mental health, as well as boosting immunity.
What do I wear to a gym appointment?
Wear comfortable sportswear or gym kit that you can move in. It should be breathable and wick moisture away from the body, whilst providing proper support. A sports bra and correct footwear are important, and some clients find that compressions pants, tops and leggings improve blood flow and aid recovery.
Will training in the gym hurt?
If you feel severe pain, stop immediately. It is to be expected that there may be some soreness to begin with, but rehabilitation treatment should not hurt excessively. Let your body and your therapist guide you.