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Achilles Repair: Early Protection & Reconditioning (Weeks 0–4)

Prepare To Perform

Coach
Greg Dea

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.

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Protects the Surgical Repair
Designed around strict post-operative constraints, this program prioritises tendon protection during the most vulnerable healing phase, reducing the risk of overload, elongation, or early setbacks.
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Clear Structure When It Matters Most
Removes guesswork in the early weeks after surgery with clearly named sessions, defined purposes, and built-in checklists to guide progression or trigger review.
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A Safe Bridge to Later Rehab Phases
Provides a structured transition from surgery to formal rehabilitation, preparing you for later loading phases without rushing the tendon before it’s ready.
Features
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Programming 3 days per week
The same session, 3 days/week for the first 2 weeks, then progressing to a different program 3 days/week for weeks 3 and 4.
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Exercise Video Guidance
Instructional videos to guide your practice and make execution easy
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Delivered through TrainHeroic
Sweating over a lifeless PDF is so last year. Keep accountable with concise instructions and accurate videos.
Equipment
Required
Some machine gym equipment for upper body maintenance training,
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Sample Week
Week 1 of 4-week program
Sunday
W0–2 Session A — Protection & Systemic Capacity

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

Tuesday
W0–2 Session A — Protection & Systemic Capacity

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

Thursday
W0–2 Session A — Protection & Systemic Capacity

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

Coach
coach-avatar 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.

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Protect What Matters.

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)
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FAQs
Is this a replacement for my physio or surgeon?
No. This program is designed to complement, not replace, your surgeon’s and physiotherapist’s care. It provides structured guidance for safe training during the first four weeks post-op, while all clinical decisions remain with your healthcare team.
What if I feel pain, pulling, or increased swelling?
Any increase in pain, tightness, or swelling—especially around the Achilles—should prompt you to stop the session and consult your physiotherapist or surgeon before continuing or progressing.
Achilles Repair: Early Protection & Reconditioning (Weeks 0–4)