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Return to Performance: Insights from Taylor Heppner, a Sports Recovery Expert
In the world of sports and fitness, injuries are an unfortunate reality. Whether you're a professional athlete or someone who enjoys staying active, knowing how to properly recover and return to performance is crucial. Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with Taylor Hepner, a strength coach and massage therapist who specializes in helping people return to peak performance after injury.
The Space Between PT and Strength Training
One of the most interesting aspects of Taylor's work is how she bridges the gap between physical therapy and strength and conditioning. She helps people determine whether they need formal PT or if they're ready to start training again. This unique position allows her to provide tailored guidance to everyone, ensuring they're on the right path to recovery.
The Importance of Consistency
A key takeaway from our conversation with Taylor was the importance of consistency in recovery and performance. She emphasized that even after initial pain or issues are resolved, it's crucial to maintain progress. This approach helps prevent recurring injuries and ensures long-term health and performance.
Avoiding the "Zero to 100" Mentality
Taylor highlighted a common misconception among people recovering from injury or starting a new fitness routine: the desire for quick results. She cautioned against the "zero to 100" mentality, stressing the importance of gradual progress. This approach not only reduces the risk of re-injury but also leads to more sustainable long-term results.
Movement as Medicine
An interesting point Taylor made was how views on movement for recovery have evolved over time. In the past, rest was often prescribed for injuries. Now, movement is seen as medicine. Of course, this doesn't mean pushing through pain, but rather finding appropriate, pain-free movements to aid recovery.
Working Through Pain
When it comes to pain management during recovery, Taylor has a structured approach. She asks clients to describe their pain in detail and uses a pain scale to gauge intensity. This information helps her determine the appropriate level of activity and when to modify or progress exercises.
Finding the Right Expert
For those seeking professional help with recovery or performance, Taylor offered valuable advice on finding the right expert. She suggested looking at credentials, specialties, and experience with specific sports or activities. She also emphasized the importance of clear communication between the client and the professional.
Conclusion
Whether you're recovering from an injury or simply looking to improve your performance, taking a gradual, consistent approach guided by knowledgeable professionals can make all the difference. Remember, your body is unique, and your path to peak performance should be tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Listen to some of the key moments in this week’s episode:
0:00-0:37 - Introduction of Taylor Hepner, a trainer and massage therapist who specializes in return to performance after injury
1:55-2:27 - Taylor describes her background and current role as director of performance recovery at a sports performance company
4:35-5:03 - Taylor explains how she occupies a space between physical therapy and strength/conditioning, helping people figure out if they need PT or how to start training
11:38-12:36 - Discussion of the importance of consistency and maintaining progress even after initial pain/issues are resolved
15:26-15:51 - Taylor talks about the problem of people wanting quick results and taking a "zero to 100" mentality instead of gradual progress
19:46-20:21 - They discuss how views on movement for recovery have changed over time, with movement now seen as medicine rather than rest
22:51-24:35 - Taylor explains her approach to helping clients work through pain, including having them describe the pain and using a pain scale
26:43-28:50 - Taylor gives advice on how to find a good expert for rehab, including looking at credentials and specialties
31:41-32:01 - Taylor provides her contact information for those interested in working with her
