THERE’S ALWAYS A WAY

All athletes must work to overcome obstacles to build strength and resiliency. Athletes with combat injuries may face more than most, but there’s always a way to get stronger and fitter. As you explore modification, adaptation and scaling options in this section, consider:

• SAFETY IS CRITICAL – push yourself but make smart choices to avoid further injury.
• UNDERSTAND THE “WHY” – every modification or adaptation should include a neural and muscular response stimulus similar to the unmodified movement – know how and why the modification retains the critical parts of the unmodified movement.
• EQUIPMENT MATTERS – a variety of tools and objects can be used to produce the stimulus sought – freely substitute equipment to find what works for you.