A physical therapist works with an athlete recovering from an injury.

TRIA L.E.A.P.

Safely return to sports after an injury with the TRIA L.E.A.P.® Program

After an injury or surgery sets you back from doing the activities you love, it’s important to make sure you’ve healed and feel confident before getting back in the game. You can reduce your risk of re-injury by training your muscles and nervous system to move and react safely and effectively during exercise.

TRIA L.E.A.P. (Lower Extremity Agility Program) is a six-week training program designed to teach athletes recovering from an injury how to control their lower extremities (anything from your hips to your toes) using proper technique and form.

In a small group setting, a physical therapist and certified athletic trainer will work with you to ensure that your body is re-learning movement the right way for long-term health and athletic performance. We’ll take you through a high-level program focused on agility, strength and stabilization to help you prepare for a safe return to your favorite activities.

“The whole process was great, and the interaction between surgeon and L.E.A.P. Program made things very easy. Everyone I worked with was incredible, didn't think I'd get the confidence back!"

TRIA L.E.A.P. components

Worrying about past injuries can hold you back from achieving your athletic goals. We strive to empower our athletes both physically and psychologically, so they feel confident and prepared as they get back in the game.

Our team is comprised of experienced orthopedic experts who specialize in helping athletes of all ages and activity levels. The TRIA L.E.A.P. Program takes place in a team setting with other athletes and is led by a physical therapist and athletic trainer. Core components of the program include strength and stability exercises, plyometric drills, jumping and landing techniques, and education on proper form and injury prevention.

Athletes are tested in strength and agility prior to starting the program to get a baseline assessment. Next, they have two-hour sessions twice per week for five weeks. At the end of the program, they’re tested again to evaluate changes and progress.

What is required to participate?

To participate, you must be at least six months post-surgery and have approval from your doctor. To assess whether you’re ready to start the program, we do an evaluation, which includes a functional test by a TRIA physical therapist or a certified athletic trainer.

Learn about L.E.A.P. Program results

If you’re interested in learning more about the results of the program, check out these two academic papers our TRIA therapists have published on L.E.A.P. patient outcomes.

Physical therapists film a male patient jumping as part of a video analysis.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)