Rowan Sanderson

Occupation: Headhunter

Goals: Return to full fitness after a fractured ankle

Comments from Rowan

For someone who lives for their sport…mountain biking, kite surfing, snowboarding, a fractured ankle is a major inconvenience. In a bid to return to full fitness as quickly as possible I decided to work with John Williams.

John has an extensive knowledge base and an appreciation of the importance of full functional biomechanics. He has been a pivotal factor in my return to all of the activities that I am passionate about.

He employed a variety of training disciplines and massage techniques to reduce scar tissue, rebuild strength in the lower leg and improve range of motion in the ankle. Bosu, power plate, balance and proprioceptive exercises were included in my programs.

As frustrating as injury rehabilitation may be, I found John’s measured approach, ‘can do’ attitude and positive mindset tremendously motivating.

More than a year on, I am now back to full strength and range of movement. A big thank you to John for his patience, positivity, expertise and diligence.

Comments from Trainer 

No question, Rowan’s fratured ankle was nasty, fracturing just above the head of the fibula. Even so, Rowan maintained a positive and pro-active mind set even coming to see me when still in the cast. Although this may seem strange to many at this stage there is actually plenty that can be done to speed recovery. When in the cast we worked on hip mobility, core stabilisation and strength knowing this would serve as a good platform to begin balance work once the cast came off and the foot/ankle complex could be loaded.

When the cast did come off Rowan sensibly consulted with a physio, following the physio’s guidance and listening to feedback Rowan gave me on how the ankle was feeling I set about introducing and  progressing exercises which increased mobility, proprioception and strength in the ankle.

Through continual communication I feel Rowan and I struck an excellent balance between challenging the ankle without overdoing it. Rowan broke his ankle just before christmas and was informed there was no way he would be going snowboarding in March. Although Rowan could not snowboard ‘full on’ Rowan did go snowboarding and was able to enjoy every day on the board!