Understanding Niggles During Training: Is Pain Always an Injury?
Welcome to the Melbourne West FAQ Education series! In this installment, we'll discuss a common concern among weightlifters: niggles. Many individuals experience discomfort or pain during their training sessions or afterward. But does every niggle mean an injury? Let's explore the topic and find out.
Understanding Niggles
A niggle refers to a feeling of discomfort, tightness, or pain in a specific area of your body. It can occur during certain movements or manifest after your training session. Niggles may be recurring, happening consistently during the same exercise, or they can be occasional, appearing once and then disappearing, often overnight.
It's essential to note that not every niggle equates to an injury. Feeling pain doesn't automatically mean you're injured. It's crucial to distinguish between normal discomfort associated with intense exercise and an actual injury.
Managing Niggles
If you're experiencing consistent niggles during a specific movement, it's time to inform your coach about what you're feeling. Your coach can provide guidance and support to address the issue. They may ask you to repeat the movement while offering cues or make adjustments to the technique or load. Additionally, they might provide you with stretching exercises or specific movements to alleviate the discomfort.
In case the niggle persists despite these alterations, your coach may consider changing the movement entirely to find an alternative that can be performed without pain. Remember, your coach is there to help you navigate through these challenges and find the best approach for your training.
Caity: Our In-House Osteopath
At Melbourne West Barbell Club, we are fortunate to have Caity, our head coach, who is also an experienced osteopath. If your niggle persists and previous measures haven't provided relief, it might be beneficial to book a session with Caity. As an osteopath, she understands the demands of Olympic weightlifting and can modify your programming accordingly. Working closely with your coach, she provides personalized care and ensures your training aligns with your recovery needs.
To book an appointment with Caity, visit The Barbell Osteo Online Booking. While we respect your preference for other professionals, Caity's unique expertise in weightlifting, combined with her in-person coaching presence during training, can offer valuable insights to support your recovery process.
Experiencing niggles during your weightlifting journey is common, but it's important to differentiate between normal discomfort and potential injuries. While niggles don't always signify an injury, they should be taken seriously. Communicate with your coach about any consistent discomfort, and together, you can make the necessary adjustments to ensure safe and effective training. If needed, consult with Caity, our in-house osteopath, for specialized care tailored to weightlifters.
Remember, your well-being and long-term progress are our priorities at Melbourne West Barbell Club. Stay proactive, stay strong, and keep pursuing your weightlifting goals!
Got something on your mind that you'd like to know more about? Let us know via the link below:
-Coach Ari
