Chronic Pain and Building Confidence Through CrossFit (Feat. Dan Long)

In this episode, Mat Hotho sits down with Dan Long, an adaptive CrossFit athlete living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Dan shares his journey from a rugby player and a member of the British Army Royal Engineers to navigating life with chronic pain following an injury. He explains what it’s like to live with an “invisible” disability, the daily realities of CRPS, and the tough choices he faces—including considering amputation to improve quality of life. Dan and Mat discuss the adaptations required in his training, the vital role of coaching, and the ongoing mental challenges of pain management. The episode also touches on the challenges of finding sponsorship as an adaptive athlete, Dan’s goals to become a certified adaptive trainer in the UK, and the essential support provided by his wife, Martha.Follow Dan on Instagram: @dan_does_adaptivecrossfitSend us Fan MailFollow the podcast on Instagram: @TheAdaptiveAthletePod