Athletes will get hit with illness. It is a part of the fabric of the journey of performance. (16:50) "In fact, the truth is, a smart coach will plan for sickness and injuries, no different than a contingency plan when you're making a budget." But how do you emerge from being under the weather in an effective way that will provide minimal downtime? Coach Matt Dixon provides that framework and counsel on managing sickness and emerging back to full-steam ahead. There are no gimmicks, no magic potions, and no quick fixes; just a practical guide to managing and emerging through sickness as a performance enthusiast. First of all, it's important to do your best to prevent major illness from happening by nailing the basics - prioritizing cleanliness, emphasizing good sleep, plenty of hydration, solid nutrition, and managing life stressors. (20:10) "The accumulation of too much stress is going to leave your body with lower defenses." (25:54) "When sickness arises, you ability to positively adapt to a training schedule is - unarguably - severely limited or even eliminated." Knowing this, your goal is to return to the mission as quickly as possible, with minimal interruption. You can't ignore it and plow on because 'that’s what your plan said.' Remember, life is not a spreadsheet. You must adapt and navigate because, (28:34)“The key to success is the consistency of effective training.” Returning from illness requires patience, pragmatism, and logic, but it also requires a little guidance. In this episode, you'll learn: Depending on the type of symptoms (head vs. chest congestion), when is it ok to train? How long should I rest and do nothing? What is the timeline to return to training? How long should I wait to "hit it hard" and get back on plan? Should I try to make up for lost time? What about supplements and vitamins? If you want to avoid, reduce risk, and defend against illness, start building those healthy habits and an approach that creates physical resilience and a long-term platform of health. Episode Timestamps 0:00-02:42 Welcome, Episode Introduction, and a word from our sponsor, Inside Tracker - use code PURPLEPATCHPRO25 for 25% in the InsideTracker Store. 02:45-07:45 Squaddie Update - Questions about Training Camps small group camps. For more information, email us at info@purplepatchfitness.com 09:50-16:20 Word of the Week - Characters - Introducing - our cast of characters that help bring our live video coaching to life 16:30 The Meat and Potatoes - Navigate Out of Illness and Get Back to Training Episode Resources Leave a Voicemail Message for Matt and Ask Him Your Burning Questions This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 25% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO25 Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Purple Patch Training Camps - Education, Skills, Community Purple Patch Swim Analysis Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events