Ep 1: Recovery with Intention – Lessons from Leah’s Journey as a Figure Athlete
Recovery from injury or chronic pain is rarely straightforward. In this episode of the Back 2 Your Best Rehab Podcast, we speak with Leah, a dedicated figure athlete, about how she navigated pain, setbacks, and the emotional challenges that come with losing the ability to train the way you once did.
Her story is a powerful reminder that successful rehab isn’t just about exercises—it’s about mindset, support, and learning to train with purpose.
From Training Hard to Rebuilding Smart
Leah’s journey into figure bodybuilding demanded years of structure and intensity. But the physical demands led to repeated injuries, surgery, and a relationship with pain that became overwhelming. She found herself in a cycle many lifters and athletes know well: trying to push through pain without a clear path forward.
“I had to separate rehab from gym. Rehab is not hypertrophy.”
That realisation was a turning point. She shifted her mindset—seeing rehab as its own process, with its own goals and rewards.
Five Key Lessons from Leah’s Experience
1. Set Intentional Goals
True progress started when Leah began setting small, clear intentions. Instead of focusing on end outcomes, she focused on showing up, moving better, and rebuilding trust in her body.
“You have to set the intention.”
2. Recovery Is Physical and Emotional
Leah spoke honestly about the grief that comes with injury—the loss of identity, the uncertainty, and the fear. Addressing these emotional layers is essential to long-term recovery.
3. Fear of Movement Is Normal—and Overcome
Kinesiophobia (fear of movement) can make rehab feel overwhelming. Leah rebuilt her confidence gradually, celebrating every small win and learning to move without fear.
4. Curiosity Helps More Than Perfection
Rigid rehab plans often fail. Leah learned to adapt, ask questions, and try different approaches—with support and feedback from trusted coaches.
“Stay curious. Be patient. It’s okay that it sucks.”
5. A Strong Support Network Changes Everything
Rehab is hard to do alone. Leah credits much of her progress to the people around her—coaches, clinicians, and mentors—who helped her stay consistent and hopeful.
Final Thoughts
Leah’s journey shows that recovery is as much about intention and emotional resilience as it is about the physical work. Whether you’re an athlete, lifter, or someone trying to return to a pain-free life, her story is proof that rebuilding is possible—with the right mindset, the right plan, and the right people in your corner.
“Rehab isn’t a setback—it’s part of the process.”
Looking for structured support and a team that understands recovery?
Explore our Back 2 Your Best Rehab Program—designed to help you rebuild strength, overcome pain, and get back to doing what you love.
👉 Click here to find out more
