In January 2025, Dutch cyclist Nooijen faced a severe setback during a training camp when she suffered a broken vertebra in her back. The injury compelled her to miss a significant portion of the cycling season, as medical professionals from Team Visma | Lease a Bike emphasized the importance of a thorough recovery process. “I followed that advice well,” Nooijen remarked, highlighting her commitment to prioritizing her health.
Nooijen’s recovery journey was marked by a steep learning curve. “As a top athlete you tend to move on quickly, but I really had the realization now: this is my back. I would like to use it in life after my cycling career as well,” she stated. This insight shaped her approach to rehabilitation, motivating her to ensure a healthy and effective recovery. For the initial six weeks post-injury, she abstained from cycling but took advantage of the ability to walk, which helped maintain a level of physical activity.
By early May, she received the encouraging news that she could resume training. According to Nooijen, her recovery progressed more rapidly than anticipated, which she attributes partly to her positive mindset. “I have a pretty positive attitude. I think that’s why I am where I am now,” she explained. While the injury was initially disheartening, she chose to focus on the future rather than dwelling on past setbacks, directing her energy toward preparation for her return to competitive cycling.
Ultimately, the national championship emerged as a pivotal moment for Nooijen, marking her comeback. The experience underscored the importance of patience, perspective, and mental fortitude in overcoming physical challenges.
