When new clients start physical therapy, they not only receive lots of information on their condition and how to get to their goal, but they also receive a multitude of exercises to continue on their own. It can be overwhelming.
We understand that, and this is why we provide information over time so you can slowly digest and incorporate it. We want you to own your problem and own your solution, and we want you to ask questions when you don’t understand what we are working on.
Here are a three tips to help you get the most out of your program.
First, make time for doing your program. You need to be consistent with what you’re doing. We are changing motor patterns, and that involves your brain, nerves, muscles, and joints. We are most effective at that when we train with consistent volume. If you ever tried to learn a new language, you know it doesn’t come with practice once a week. You need to emerge into it daily. Your program is specific to you and will help you get where you want to go, so embrace it as a lifestyle change, and get after it every day if possible.
Second, set up for success. Have a plan, have yourself ready, and have yourself available. Being consistent with the time of day is a great strategy for many. Others are able to squeeze it in when available, but this is harder to maintain consistency with. Also, make sure you have your equipment with you, and a space you can work in. Take care of all the controllable things throughout the day, and that includes proper resting, hydration, and stress management. All things we will talk more about going forward.
Third, be honest with yourself. If you don’t have the time to do everything, then schedule what’s most important. If you don’t have the motivation to accomplish your goal, then ask those around you for it. If you don’t have the support, energy, or ability, then speak up and we will modify a plan that’s better for you. We need to have a successful mindset going into this, and we can build a plan to support that.
We are taking time out of our busy lives to solve a problem. If the problem could be solved in an hour or two, then we would all sign up for that. It doesn’t work that way though, and we need to progressively move forward to get to that solution. The time you spend outside physical therapy has greater impact than anything we can do while in physical therapy. Commit to yourself by making time, setting up for success, and being honest with yourself. #snowbeastperformance