Supporting athletes on their Invictus Games journey
Posted on 27th September 2017 at 10:00
Invictus is Latin for “unconquered”, and these athletes are nothing short of an inspiration.
What are the Invictus Games?
The Invictus Games, representing strength in the face of adversity, started this week. The games are for people who have been injured in the course of duty.
550 sports people will be representing 17 nations across 11 sporting events - including our clients Jennifer Yarwood and Steve Cokayne, part of the 90 strong team from GB. They have all had to go through a challenging selection process that has seen them involved in event bootcamps, explaining to a panel why they want to be involved in the games and what they can bring to it. And that’s alongside all the training and preparation work.
We are rooting for our clients Jennifer Yarwood and Steve Cokayne!
Jennifer Yarwood was a Lance Corporal in the army but has a spinal cord injury and PTSD. She is competing in swimming and powerlifting events at the games. Steve Cokayne was badly injured following a rock-climbing accident on military exercise, eventually he had his right leg amputated below the knee. Steve is competing in the athletics and powerlifting.
Both athletes see Amy at Simply Gym Hinckley for their sports massage, so how does the treatment help them?
Amy explains; “regular massage help maintain Steve and Jennifer’s overall performances, as it helps to maintain and improve their range of motion. It also helps with recovery from training, and to relax - both physically and mentally. I’ve also advised them about exercises to continue whilst they are out at the games in Toronto.”
“It’s been fantastic to support Steve and Jennifer on their journey. They are amazing people. It’s been amazing to see their strength, focus and determination growing from being chosen to represent GB at the games. From a therapist viewpoint, the scale of injuries that they have has really pushed me to use my knowledge, training and experience to help them on that plane to Toronto feeling strong and with no niggles.”
Prince Harry sums it up; “sport of course is not the only answer, but it is a hugely powerful tool. People find motivation and purpose in many different things. But in my mind, there is no denying the impact that teamwork, competition and fun has on someone’s well-being and outlook.”
Find out more about the Invictus Games and read some of the incredible stories. The latest Team GB news from the games is on the Help for Heroes website.
If you need a massage, or something doesn’t feel quite right - we are here to help! Give us a call, email or book online.
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