For many athletes, life after sport can be a struggle that struggle went to a whole new level for former All Black Adam Thomson when he was struck down with a serious spinal injury.
Now he's training for a new challenge and pushing others to make a positive change for themselves along the way.
There was a time when former All Black Adam Thomson thought he was invincible, but he's now realised how quickly things can change.
He got struck down with a spinal infection in December 2017.
The freak injury left the World Cup winner in agonising pain where he was hospitalised for two months, battling mental demons along the way.
"[I] Kind of couldn't walk for a month and I was getting wheeled to the shower in my bed," Thomson told Newshub.
"That's a huge blow to the ego and a huge blow to the psyche."
Now he's overcome those dark times and is training for Auckland's Spartan race next month.
"Your strength is tested, your aerobic capacity and your mental capacity as well," Thomson told Newshub.
It's that psychological challenge which is pushing Thomson and his team that includes former Muay Thai professional and mental health activist Richie Hardcore.
"Exercise isn't a silver bullet, but if you get into a routine it is going to help you maintain good mental health," Hardcore told Newshub.
After he came so close to losing the ability to do what he loves...Thomson's laying down the challenge to those who are currently struggling.
"That was a huge wake-up call that this is a huge part of your life don't take it for granted," Thomson told Newshub.
"I would encourage anyone to get involved in something physical if you don't use it you lose it."
Despite some doubt, getting back on his feet after his spinal infection was the only option.
"I stand here today feeling better mentally and physically than I ever have been," Thomson told Newshub.
Adam Thomson has bounced back from rock bottom, showing what the human body is capable of.
Newshub.
