At FAST Running, we don’t just train hard — we train smart. Our commitment to Innovation in Training ensures that athletes like Marijke stay healthy, make progress, and continue to work toward excellence, even in the face of injury.
For Marijke, that journey has involved navigating a challenging diagnosis affecting the bones and joints of her foot — but with the right support team, she’s tackling it head-on.
Understanding the Challenge
A recent ultrasound revealed that Marijke is managing two significant issues in her foot:
- Bony irregularities in the tarsometatarsal (TMT) joints 1–4, particularly the second TMT joint. These joints are key for stabilising the foot during sprinting and jumping, and the changes are likely due to early osteoarthritis.
- Synovitis, or inflammation of the joint lining, with clear signs of synovial thickening and increased vascularity, indicating active irritation and swelling.
This type of diagnosis requires care, patience, and evidence-based management. And that’s where the FAST ecosystem comes into play.
A Whole-Team Approach: From Podiatry to Performance
To give Marijke the best possible pathway forward, she’s working closely with our expert partners at Peak Performance Podiatry. Together, they’ve built a rehab plan that includes:
- Mid-foot joint mobilisation, done gently under professional guidance
- Isometric loading of the small foot muscles to reduce pain and preserve strength
- Toe yoga and foot doming exercises — low-impact drills that build control and function, without strain
- A firm focus on avoiding impact and forefoot loading — meaning no jumping, lunges, or toe push-off during this recovery phase
As part of her management, Peak Performance Podiatry also referred Marijke to The Runners Shop in Phillip, where she picked up a pair of carefully selected shoes today, matched to her needs and tailored for foot support. Tomorrow, she’ll be fitted with custom orthotics designed to offload stress and keep her moving safely.
This Is Innovation in Action
This isn’t just injury management — it’s athlete-first innovation.
Through smart planning, trusted partnerships, and individualised support, we’re helping Marijke stay connected to training, preserve performance, and rebuild stronger than before. Her modified training program uses low-load strategies, active recovery, and constant feedback between coach, athlete, and allied health experts.
At FAST Running, our Innovation in Training philosophy means working smarter so our athletes can go faster — and longer. Whether it’s through podiatry, technology, or training adjustments, we ensure no athlete is left behind.
Thank you to Peak Performance Podiatry and The Runners Shop for your expertise and support in keeping Marijke – and all our athletes – on track.
Interested in how FAST can support your performance? Get in touch with our coaching team today.
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