After a life altering accident and years of rehab, COAST Physiotherapist Nika Sidiropoulos thought that she would never be able to return to the active life she cherished. But that all changed when she bought a bike on a whim and started to regain confidence in her body. She then set her sights on a sport she had once loved - running.
Here’s her story.
How did you get back into running?
Running has been one of my greatest accomplishments since my injury. Before I got back into it, I was hesitant to try a sport I once loved. Mixed messages from doctors made me believe that running wasn’t possible for me. But two years ago, a physiotherapy mentor helped me see that I could return to running on my own terms—slowly and at my own pace.
I spent months alternating between walking and running on the treadmill, testing my body little by little. Eventually, I took my running outdoors and, after months of training, ran my first 5K since my accident. That was just the beginning. I continued to challenge myself, running my first 10K in the spring of 2024, and in the fall, I completed my first half marathon.
What do you love most about running?
Running has not only been a huge physical accomplishment, but it has also introduced me to a community of like-minded people who share my love for the outdoors. As part of my return-to-sport journey, I’ve developed a keen interest in running and running-related injuries. I’m excited to help others get back to the activities they love, using my experience to guide them along the way.