Hannah Miller: Coming Back Strong
Coming back strong from an injury as an elite athlete can be a difficult and daunting feat. However, that didn’t stop 2022 U.S. Olympic Hopeful, figure skater and MSU student Hannah Miller who overcame injury with strength and grace.
Hannah suffered from three sprained ligaments this past summer which kept her completely off the ice for two months. However, she was able to do light strength training, swimming, plyometric training and yoga. She came back 100 percent in August. “I did a lot of training off the ice and really had to take my injury day by day,” said Miller. “Hot yoga two to three times per week helped me keep my core strong, which is a key part of being strong on the ice.”
Miller recently won regionals in October and took fourth place at the Midwestern Sectional Championships in November, which qualifies her for the 2019 National Championship in Detroit in January. Miller attributes her strength and success following her injury to consistency and good nutrition. “I eat three to four balanced meals per day and always include milk with my meals,” said Miller.
“I start each morning with a smoothie that includes milk, berries and greens to kick start the day. My lunch typically includes a salad with fruit and a latte. In the afternoon I typically have oatmeal with banana slices to sustain my energy and a balanced dinner. If you fail to put nutrient rich foods in your body, you won’t be able to compete at a high level. Especially during injuries, our bones and muscle need quality nutrients like protein, calcium and vitamin D that are all found in milk,” said Miller.
Miller offers inspirational advice to young adolescent athletes who are also aspiring skaters: “You really need to take your training day by day, especially during times of setbacks, doubt and injuries. When I was off the ice working to overcome my injury, I kept a positive mindset. It is truly hard to not do something you love because you’re injured. However, it is important to keep in mind that you won’t be injured forever and with hard work and persistence you can come back strong.”
Miller would also look at quotes daily to keep motivated and focused. One of Miller’s favorite quotes is “a little progress adds up to big results.” Hannah is fully recovered from her injury and attributes that to being consistent with her nutrition, having positive mindset and controlling her controllable variables.
“I feel really blessed and fortunate to be where I am today,” said Miller. “I plan to give it all I have at Championships!
Please join us in wishing Hannah Miller good luck and success as she prepares for Nationals being held in Detroit! To stay updated on all of Hannah’s progress follow us on social media (@MilkMeansMore). If you want to read more about Hannah check out our previous blog here.
