Dan’s ACL Recovery Story at CrossFit 1864

Injuries can stop people in their tracks. For Dan, it happened suddenly and violently. While skiing, another skier ploughed into him from behind. The result was devastating: a torn ACL in both knees.

At that point, running felt impossible. Even walking properly was a challenge. Everyday movement was uncomfortable, unstable, and frustrating. Like many people after a serious injury, Dan was left wondering what his body would be capable of again.

The Reality After Injury

After the accident, Dan wasn’t thinking about marathons. He was focused on basics: walking without pain, regaining confidence in his knees, and trusting his body again.

This stage is where many people stall. Fear of reinjury, lack of structure, or doing too much too soon can keep recovery stuck in limbo.

Dan needed a plan that rebuilt him patiently, intelligently, and safely.

Rebuilding From the Ground Up

At CrossFit 1864, Dan focused on controlled strength, stability, and gradual progress. Everything started with what he could do, not what he used to do.

Training prioritised:

• Knee stability and strength

• Controlled lower-body movements

• Building confidence under load

• Progressive running exposure over time

Nothing was rushed. Movements were scaled. Volume was adjusted. The goal wasn’t speed. It was long-term resilience.

From Walking to Running Again

As Dan’s strength and confidence grew, so did his capacity. Walking became smooth again. Then light jogging. Then consistent running.

What once felt impossible slowly became normal.

This is where structured training matters. Each phase built on the last. No shortcuts. No ego. Just consistency.

Running the London Marathon

The outcome speaks for itself.

Dan went from struggling to walk properly after tearing both ACLs to running the London Marathon.

Not because of a miracle fix. Not because he ignored pain. But because he respected the process, trained intelligently, and stayed consistent.

What Dan’s Story Represents

Dan’s journey is a powerful reminder that:

• Injuries don’t define your future

• Recovery isn’t linear, but it is possible

• Strength training plays a huge role in rehabilitation

• Patience beats panic every time

This is what CrossFit looks like when it’s done properly. Training that supports life, recovery, and long-term capability.

Dealing With an Injury or Setback?

If you’re recovering from an injury or feel like your body isn’t doing what it used to, Dan’s story shows what’s possible with the right approach.

You don’t need to rush.
You don’t need to compare yourself.
You just need the right environment and a plan that fits you.