“ When you're injured and beginning to rejoin group rides/workouts, how do you let other riders know you're not at 100%? I'm thinking specifically of gravel and mountain biking. I have trouble clipping out quickly, and am currently overly cautious. I want to ride in the very back, but sometimes there are other people ALSO trying to ride in the back. I know people don't want/need to hear my ‘woe is me' injury story, but I also don't want to be a hazard!”

—Whitney

In season 8 of The Injured Athletes Club podcast, mental skills coach Carrie Jackson answers a question every other week about the mental side of overcoming injuries. This week, she addresses returning to sport, and how to do so safely and respectfully when other people are involved.

Coach Carrie applauds Whitney for her courage in getting back out there and her conscientiousness in being aware of others’ needs. Balancing it all out might take a little coordination and communication before the ride, either electronically or in person. This can feel uncomfortable at first, she acknowledges—but in the end, it’s the best way to clarify expectations and help everyone have the best day possible.

Resources/links:

• Recording of The Injured Athletes Club Recovery Summit: The Athlete's Toolkit

A huge thank you to LEVER Movement, the exclusive sponsor of season 8 of The Injured Athletes Club podcast! The LEVER system is an innovative way to reduce your body weight, and the impact on your joints, while exercising on a treadmill. Use the code “TIAC20” to get 20% off your purchase.

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