Nobody talks about the scariest part of injury recovery: starting over.
After minor surgery last year, my normal workout routine was off the table. My hard-earned fitness metrics? Old news.
The Peloton platform, like most fitness apps, is built around progress and personal bests.
But what about the comeback journey?
Here’s what I’ve learned: The path back is more mental than physical.
When you’re recovering, you don’t need motivational shouts to push harder. You need confidence that you’re rebuilding safely and sustainably.
Think about how Netflix handles interruptions. That simple “Are you still watching?” prompt acknowledges that life happens. And when you return, you pick up right where you left off.
Netflix goes even further – letting you pause your subscription when you’re going on vacation or need a break from binging. When you return, you’re welcomed back like an old friend.
No guilt, no penalties, no judgment. Just “Hey, hop back in where you left off.”
Fitness platforms could learn from this approach.
Imagine a platform that could:
- Detect unusual drops in performance metrics
- Offer modified versions of favorite workouts
- Track recovery progress against medical guidelines
- Celebrate small wins differently than peak performance
- Flag potential signs of re-injury or overtraining
The goal is much bigger than getting back to where you were.
It’s coming back stronger and smarter.
For product makers, this speaks to a universal truth: Users don’t follow straight-line journeys.
Every product category has its version of injury recovery – whether it’s financial setbacks, career changes, or project failures.
The most loyal users aren’t the ones who never stumble. (Such people don’t exist in real life.)
They’re the ones who feel supported getting back up.
How does your product handle usage disruption?
Do your customers feel safe and supported when starting over?
Laurier
P.S. Ever had to rebuild after a setback? Share your story – I’m collecting insights for the final piece in this series.