The right mix of companions is especially important when you’re recovering from injury or illness. On a recent nordic ski outing, I found an ideal mix of supportive friends.
Setbacks happen. Almost every physical endeavor carries with it some risk of injury. In my case, a hamstring pull had me tottering about … wondering how soon I’d be back on skis.
Recovery time sucks. But after judicious body work and faithfully following the my therapists’s recommendations, I was walking normally within a week. I wanted to give skiing a try. Cautiously.
As my physical therapist suggested, I first tested out the motions of skiing at home. In sock-clad feet, I slid across the kitchen floor, mimicking the glide and kick of nordic skiing. I gradually increased my stride, until I was sliding well enough to commit to a five-mile outing on a groomed trail.
I had intended to keep the outing small, to avoid potentially holding back the group. But my friend, Kim, enthusiastically invited a few more friends — including Beverly and Jackie, two of the fastest skiers I know. I was concerned that our group dynamic would be a disaster.
When we met at Meissner Sno Park I told my friends that I was limiting myself to five
miles at my own pace, due to the injury. Someone suggested an alternate route but Beverly spoke up, “I think Lauren should stick to a groomed trail.” I was grateful.
When you’re recovering, it’s essential to evaluate your your limits, make a plan, and stick with it. To have friends who respect and support your recovery makes it easier to stay on track.
The group let me lead, so I could choose a comfortable pace. I urged them to go ahead, at their normal speed, but they insisted — they knew that if I fell back I’d be discouraged and/or tempted to keep up. My friends skied at my pace to encourage me. My muscles loosened up, my stride gained ground, and my pace increased as we went. I was in heaven.
My concern that the group wouldn’t mesh was unfounded, despite the wide range of abilities. This was clearly not a competition.
As we neared the end of our loop, three members of our group chose a more challenging downhill route, while Kim and I took the easier route. I was pleased with my progress but still feeling risk averse.
We met up again at the main trail and made our way back to the warming hut, each of us having had a successful outing. Our faster skiers never once complained about the relaxed pace.
Given that recovery is an important part of all sports and fitness activities, learning to live with it is important. If you are recovering from injury, choose friends who will be supportive and respectful of your limits. And, be willing to be that friend when one of your companions needs a slower or less challenging outing.
As for my friends, I am truly grateful — ready to do more next time and to be there for them should they need a recovery buddy.
