Key Takeaways:
– Wout van Aert is planning to restart cyclocross racing by end of the month, exercising caution during his recovery from a knee injury.
– Belgian Cycling team doctor, Kris Van der Mieren, counsels against accelerating recovery, emphasizing patient rebuild.
– Cyclocross, requiring cycling and considerable running, may see Van Aert making his season’s inauguration at the World Cup rounds in Hulst or Zonhoven.
– Although Van Aert’s recovery progresses, additional strength building in running is needed to fortify his return.
– Van der Mieren emphasizes slow and steady recovery to prevent further injuries.
Gradual Return to Fitness
Wout van Aert, the esteemed Belgian cyclist and former world champion, is expected to slowly return to cyclocross racing. His comeback following a knee injury incurred at the Vuelta a España race in September is underscored by a measured, intentional attitude towards recovery.
Van Aert’s recovery is being monitored strictly to avoid unnecessary strain. Belgian Cycling’s team doctor Kris Van der Mieren insists rushing the return process is not an option. He is careful to prevent further injuries that may hinder Van Aert’s long-term performance.
Challenges and Plan Ahead
Complications arose for Van Aert during the Vuelta a España. He endured a crash during the descent of the Collada Llomena on stage 16. This accident caused severe knee pain and a profound injury, leading to withdrawal from the race.
In spite of this setback, Van Aert recommenced road training on October 4th. He also plans to attend an upcoming training camp with his team, Visma-Lease a Bike, in Spain. The camp concludes on December 19th, but a return to racing isn’t anticipated until the end of December, allowing enough time for recovery.
The Restrained Road to Recovery
Van Aert’s acquaintances with the rigors of cyclocross, which involves both cycling and running, are likely to make his comeback more challenging. Van der Mieren highlights the importance of not starting to race too early.
The doctor confirms that Van Aert’s recovery is on the right track; progress is evident. However, he does urge the cyclist to enhance his running strength which will be beneficial for his rehab.
“In essence, the boosting value running offers cyclists is proven” Van der Mieren observes. “It provides the best power stimulus to muscles. Particularly in cyclocross, it’s a double-benefit narrative. The absorbed shocks bolster the tendon fibres.”
Gentle Approach to Regaining Form
Van Aert is guided to regain form slowly once he is ready to start the cyclocross season. Returning to top form requires those fibres to adjust and progressively strengthen. According to Van der Mieren, the recovery period can stretch over several months or even up to a year.
“Rushing the recovery is strictly off limits,” the doctor underlines. He advises against overstraining, which could potentially risk a new injury. The focus remains on robust recovery to ensure longevity within Van Aert’s racing career. His carefully tailored approach to recovery shows the importance of patience, discipline and dedication in the face of challenges that professional athletes often face.
Through his journey, Wout van Aert sets an example for young athletes worldwide, highlighting the importance of perseverance, patience and resilience in returning to one’s full strength after an injury. His comeback journey is built on the maxim that it’s not how fast you recover, but how well you recover that truly matters.