There is nothing more frustrating to a serious trainer than having to deal with an injury.  We all want to be invincible and give 100% every moment we can in the gym or in our chosen sport.  Suddenly we feel like someone hit the brakes or threw a 50 pound weight on our shoulders.

I must admit that I have wasted a lot of energy being angry and frustrated about injuries in the gym.  However after all of these years I also know that this is simply a part of the sport.  You can’t expect to spend year after year pushing your body to move heavy weights over and over and never have a set-back.  Even the most diligent trainer with the best technique can have a problem.  The slightest slip of form or loss of concentration can be all it takes.

So first I always suggest that anyone who is new in the gym make the investment to hire a trainer (or a knowledgeable gym-rat friend) and have them take you through a series of workouts, showing correct form on every single exercise.  This has to be the smartest thing any new gym enthusiast could do.  Most people quit the gym because they get hurt or are intimidated by the environment.  Having a trainer to guide you through each exercise, teaching correct form, is a great use of time and money.  Plus you figure out that everyone is in fact NOT looking at you but is really absorbed in their own workout.

Once an injury or setback happens, remember that this is PART of the activity.  This is a chance to take stock of your workout and focus on other things.  A few years ago I hurt my shoulder and agonized through 3 months where I could do no upper body work at all.  Looking back, my upper body benefited from the rest, and my abs and legs (the only things I could train!) improved from all the extra attention.  Hmmm, a life lesson perhaps?

Also, be smart in the gym.  Ask someone for a spot when you need it.  Most people are happy to help out and it builds the comradery in the gym.

If you encounter a setback, don’t beat yourself up, but get creative.  Find ways to work around an injury, or decide to concentrate on what you CAN do while the rest of you heals.  In the long run your body and your attitude will benefit and you’ll end up stronger both physically and mentally.