Achilles Repair: Early Protection & Reconditioning (Weeks 0–4) is a structured, surgeon-respecting training program designed for the first four weeks following surgical Achilles tendon repair.
This phase exists to do one thing well: protect the repair while keeping the rest of the body active.
The program is built around strict post-operative constraints, including non-weight bearing and very limited partial weight bearing, with no stretching beyond neutral dorsiflexion and no tendon loading beyond what is appropriate for early healing. Every session prioritises safety, clarity, and tissue respect.
Inside the program you’ll find:
Clearly named sessions with a defined purpose
Whole-body and proximal strength work that does not stress the Achilles
Controlled movement exposure to maintain coordination and circulation
DNS-informed trunk and patterning work, modified to keep the Achilles neurologically quiet
Built-in checklists to guide progression or flag the need for review with your physio or surgeon
This program does not include running, plyometrics, eccentric calf work, or aggressive strengthening. It is not designed to “push” recovery or accelerate timelines. Instead, it provides a safe, structured bridge between surgery and later rehabilitation phases.
Importantly, this program is not a substitute for in-person care. It is intended to be used alongside your surgeon’s and physiotherapist’s guidance, helping you stay active and confident without overstepping the biology of healing tissue.
If you’ve had an Achilles repair and want clear structure, guardrails, and peace of mind in the early weeks—this is where you start.
A
Diaphragmatic breathing reset
4 x 6
B
Quad Set
1 x 5 @ 10
C
Core activated straight leg raise
D
Resisted Standing Hip Flexion
3 x 15
E
Resisted Standing Hip Extension
3 x 15
F
Machine Chest Press
3 x 12
G
Machine Seated Row
3 x 12
Uncategorized
H
WEEK 0–2 CHECKLIST (End of Session, Achilles Repair Program)
✔ No increase in Achilles pain ✔ No wound irritation, heat, or discharge ✔ Swelling stable or improving over 24–48 h ✔ Full adherence to non-weight bearing rules → If any box is not met: pause progression and consult physio/surgeon
A
Diaphragmatic breathing reset
4 x 6
B
Quad Set
1 x 5 @ 10
C
Core activated straight leg raise
D
Resisted Standing Hip Flexion
3 x 15
E
Resisted Standing Hip Extension
3 x 15
F
Machine Chest Press
3 x 12
G
Machine Seated Row
3 x 12
Uncategorized
H
WEEK 0–2 CHECKLIST (End of Session, Achilles Repair Program)
✔ No increase in Achilles pain ✔ No wound irritation, heat, or discharge ✔ Swelling stable or improving over 24–48 h ✔ Full adherence to non-weight bearing rules → If any box is not met: pause progression and consult physio/surgeon
A
Diaphragmatic breathing reset
4 x 6
B
Quad Set
1 x 5 @ 10
C
Core activated straight leg raise
D
Resisted Standing Hip Flexion
3 x 15
E
Resisted Standing Hip Extension
3 x 15
F
Machine Chest Press
3 x 12
G
Machine Seated Row
3 x 12
Uncategorized
H
WEEK 0–2 CHECKLIST (End of Session, Achilles Repair Program)
✔ No increase in Achilles pain ✔ No wound irritation, heat, or discharge ✔ Swelling stable or improving over 24–48 h ✔ Full adherence to non-weight bearing rules → If any box is not met: pause progression and consult physio/surgeon
Greg Dea
Performance Sports Physical Therapist. IFSPT Registered International Sports Physical Therapist with over 25 years experience, living and working in 5 countries with military and world champion professional athletes. Clinical Educator in 10 countries. Based in Australia.
The first four weeks after Achilles surgery are about protection, not progress. This program gives you clear structure to stay active, respect healing tissue, and move forward without risking the repair.
Get Achilles Repair: Early Protection & Reconditioning (Weeks 0–4)