on the mend

You may have noticed that I have been missing since December. Two days before Christmas, I slipped on an icy step coming out of a client's home and BROKE my ankle ( the lower fibula). Devestation is a word that doesnt carry enough weight for how I felt. Despite the fear, frustration and pain, I was determined to use this injury as a stepping stone to get stronger...someway, somehow. I didnt miss a beat in the gym. I continued to work and train on one leg, hopping around carrying kettlebells and flipping tires. My stabilizer muscles looked like those of a professional ballet dancer. My quads, hamstrings, and calfs on the other hand, dwindled down to pencils. I attempted crossfit workouts on one leg. Here is an example:
Cindy
5 pull ups
10 push ups
15 squats ( I did one legged deadlifts with 35 lb kettlebells)
as many rounds as possible in 20 minutes
My clients would laugh as I demonstrated one legged burpees, clean and press and ball slams. If they thought I was crazy before...it is now confirmed in their minds ( in a good way).
People who saw me wanted to cry for me, and told me, " you never realize how much you cant do until you dont have use of your leg." To which I honestly responded, " I never knew how much I COULD do with only one leg."
Fast forward to today...the Dr told me that I could walk, and I have been squatting, deadlifting and rowing ever since. I dont know if this is acceptable, because it certainly causes a lot of pain, but I believe I know what my body can handle. I have been walking Scout again, trying to put my focus on putting my weak foot through a complete deliberate step, rolling onto all four corners.
My fracture is still not healed, and I am not allowed to attempt running for two more weeks. The pain is so great right now, I can barely imagine doing so. I have attempted a half shuffle in the trails with my pup, and had a violent nautious reaction to the pain.
I have, however started two legged workouts again, and I am weak..just to warn you. This is now the log of rebuilding Sarah...enjoy.