Olympic recovery

In December 2018, Olympic Champion and Nirvana Spa member, Will Satch tore his pectoralis major tendon from his shoulder whilst on training camp. Just two years after he stroked the men’s eight to glory in Rio, Will found himself facing a long road to recovery. Following his shoulder operation, Will spent a difficult ten days with his shoulder completely immobilised. Will is a typical athlete, exercising is a discipline which defines him; so, whilst the pain was “horrendous,” being unable to move was “torturous.”

With his body accustomed to training flat out, Will found the abrupt cessation of exercise very stressful and he was unable to sleep. As soon as the scar healed, Will started spending time in the Balneotherapy pool. He would lay, fully supported by the sculpted seating, look up at the ceiling and enjoy the “mesmerising tranquillity.” The warm waters became his haven and his sleep improved. Comfortable in these waters, Will then began his first activation exercises in the Balneotherapy Pool.

Will’s rehabilitation continued at the Intense Rehab Unit at Bisham Abbey and he continued visiting Nirvana frequently to “top up.” In the Thermal Suite, he would apply ice to decrease blood flow to the area, reduce swelling and promote healing. Will headed to the Wellness Suite and performed resistance band movements to increase mobility and strength through the shoulder. He would then spend time in the Hydrotherapy pool to increase blood flow and “flush his muscles."

As he returned to more intense exercise, mostly on a Watt bike, Will suffered excruciating DOMS (muscle soreness) and he used the jets in the hydrotherapy pool for myofascial release (soft tissue massage).

Will is now back on the water and pushing for selection for next year’s Olympics, he is continuing to use the hydrotherapy pool and is excited for the opening of our Dead Sea Salt Therapy Pool.