This morning I got a text from a client who had a full shoulder replacement 6 days ago. He reported that he’d been cleared to drive, has been out hiking and feels pretty good. It should also be noted that he’s 70.

He then asked if it would be OK to get back to some light band work with his uninjured arm and shoulder. Knowing my client pretty well (he rarely stops moving), I told him I did believe it would be OK as long as he went easy and listened to his body.

Shoulder replacement surgery is a big trauma to the body. So how is this guy able to start getting on with his life less than a week later?

The answer is Functional Reserve, also referred to as Physical Reserve*.

He knew he was going to have this surgery months before it was scheduled. He’s always been active and worked out some, but tended to focus on the “glam” muscles (e.g., chest, biceps, abs).

Personal training sessions were scheduled so he could learn how to get his shoulder and the rest of his body in the best shape possible BEFORE he went in for the surgery.

He was diligent with his training and did all the homework that was assigned to him. By the time his surgery was scheduled, he was in great shape and is now minimizing the amount of time needed to recover.

• When we work out, get sick or have any type of surgery, our bodies always need a certain amount of time to recover.

• The amount of time is determined by a variety of factors such as our age, fitness levels, genetics, how we deal with stress, the amount of trauma to our bodies, etc.

Many people I train work out to stay healthy and to be able to live their lives the way they want. They don’t want to be limited as they age, and let’s admit it, some also want to look good.

The more we work out, the more we’re able to do and the more functional reserve we accumulate, within reason. Everyone’s body has slightly different needs.

In general, if we don’t allow reasonable recovery time after a workout, illness or surgery, we may suffer a setback. This can include a pulled muscle, further illness and/or problem with healing after a surgery.

• Stretching and foam rolling after a workout can decrease the need for muscle recovery.

• Resting, drinking plenty of fluids and eating super healthy can speed up recovery time from many illnesses, and

• Going into a surgery in great shape can also minimize recovery time.

Some recovery time is essential but the amount you’ll need will almost always be based on your current levels of health and fitness.

If that’s not motivation to stay in shape, I’m not sure what is.

Action Step:

• Do one more active thing today than you did yesterday (unless you are actually recovering today!)

• It doesn’t matter what it is, just move more and try to enjoy your movement as much as that’s possible for you.

• If you need help, consider reaching out to a friend, family member or getting a trainer. (Yes, that’s a link to me.) 😊

*If you’d like to learn more about Functional / Physical Reserve, click here.