Episode Overview:
Discuss Colin's recent hernia surgery recovery and explore mental aspects of injury/recovery for triathletes.
Key Takeaways:
-Colin had dual-sided hernia surgery 8 weeks ago, still with lifting restrictions
-Recovery taking longer than initially expected; doctors gave conflicting timelines
-Mental challenges of injury include self-doubt, identity issues, and managing expectations
-Gratitude and perspective shifts help cope with setbacks and appreciate the sport
Topics:
-Colin's Hernia Surgery and Recovery-Dual-sided sports hernia surgery on Dec 23rd, ~8 weeks ago
-Still has lifting restrictions, some pain when overdoing activities-Initially told 6 weeks to normal activity, later revised to 3 months for running
-Full recovery could take up to a year according to doctors
-Dealing with frustration of conflicting recovery timelines
Causes and Diagnosis:
-Likely overuse injury from high training volume
-breathing patterns (more belly breathing) may have contributed
-Took ~2 months and multiple doctors to properly diagnose
-Pain started subtly, worsened over time, especially when running
Mental Aspects of Injury/Recovery:
-Self-doubt about ability to return to competitive level
-Identity challenges when unable to train normally
-Managing expectations vs. reality of recovery timeline
-Importance of focusing on what you can do vs. limitations
-Gratitude practice helps maintain perspective
Impact on Family/Support System:
-Significant sacrifices made by family to support triathlon pursuits
-Balancing family time with training/racing commitments
-Appreciation for those who enable pursuit of the sport
Reflections on the Sport:
-High costs (time, money) make it inaccessible for many
-Valuable lessons in perseverance and self-knowledge
-Reframing "have to" to "get to" for training/racing-Importance of vulnerability and sharing struggles
Next Steps:
-Colin to continue gradual return to activity, respecting recovery timeline
-Both hosts to maintain gratitude practice and positive framing of training
-Consider ways to discuss mental/emotional aspects of sport more openly
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