Triathlete Tina Grieger on setbacks and new goals

For Bayreuth triathlete Tina Grieger, 2026 marks the beginning of a new sporting chapter: After numerous successes as an age group athlete – including the European Championship title at Ironman Frankfurt and qualification for the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii – the 37-year-old is now starting as a professional.

Her concern was all the greater when, right at the start of the season, she suddenly developed pain on the inside of her right knee. In an interview with the medical device manufacturer medi, she explains what helped her get back into training quickly and what role exercise and prevention play for her.

Ms. Grieger, you only recently made the move into professional sports. Why?

"Actually, the idea came rather unexpectedly. As an age-group athlete, I had already achieved a lot and was able to fulfill a lifelong dream by participating in the Ironman Hawaii 2023."

"The atmosphere, the sea, the people, and the entire preparation were something very special. These are memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Afterwards, I asked myself: What comes next?"

"During a competition last year, I made a bet with my physiotherapist that I wouldn't finish in the top 5. In the end, I came in third. My physiotherapist then said: 'Now you have to take the step into the professional ranks.' This idea then became a reality."

A courageous decision.

“Yes, definitely. I continue to work as a teacher, teaching mathematics and sports. At the same time, I invest a lot of time in training and voluntary work at the club. Therefore, I had to learn to use my energy even more strategically and to choose competitions more consciously.”

"When I suddenly felt pain on the inside of my right knee right at the start of the season, I wondered whether I could continue my training as planned. Up until then, I had been injury-free for eight years."

How did the pain manifest itself?

"Especially when climbing stairs, particularly going down. It also caused a sharp pain in my knee when running fast. Sometimes I even had to stop the movement. That was worrying! At first, I thought the problem was from my running training."

"Only later, during the analysis with my long-time physiotherapist, did it become clear that the cause lay elsewhere: My new racing bike was not yet optimally adjusted."

"Even small changes in seating position can lead to incorrect loading during the high training volumes of triathlon. Consequently, I was diagnosed with pes anserinus syndrome (painful irritation of the tendon attachments on the inside of the knee). For two weeks, I wore the Genumedi PA knee brace from medi."

What did you think of the knee brace?

"After the acute pain subsided, I gradually wore the orthosis for longer and longer periods – initially for a few hours, later for the entire day."

"In everyday life, it provided me with optimal support and gave me stability and security. Especially when going down stairs, I felt that my knee was better guided and I no longer made any unfavorable movements."

A training band is also included with the Genumedi PA for supplementary exercises. Have you used it?

"Yes, I am convinced that active participation is crucial. I did the exercises with the resistance band every day – and they were a useful addition for me. For years I have relied on consistent athletic and strength training as well as targeted preventative exercises."

“At the same time, I completed a structured return-to-work plan in which the workload was increased step by step. It was important to honestly assess how the knee felt each day – and to take a step back if the pain increased.”

How important is the mental aspect when dealing with an injury?

"Very important. I'm an ambitious person and often put myself under pressure. That's why an injury also affects me mentally. The orthosis has given me confidence in that respect as well."

"At some point you realize the pain is gone, but the uncertainty is still there in your mind. With the orthosis, it was easier for me to walk normally again."

When did you realize things were looking up again?

“Four days before the traditional Maisel’s FunRun in Bayreuth, I was able to run faster again for the first time – and knew I was in. The event is a fixed part of my season plan and it would have been a shame if I had missed it.”

"Of course, you always want to be at the front, and I'm proud to have won the quarter marathon with my teammates in the women's team competition, as well as the individual competition in the 5k race. But this time I was just incredibly grateful to be back at the starting line at all."

What advice would you give to other people struggling with similar ailments or injuries?

"Above all, stay active as much as possible. I would recommend that everyone do regular strength and athletic training and listen to their own body. Those who know their weaknesses and work on them specifically can avoid many problems."

"And if problems arise, you should seek good support, be it from physiotherapists, trainers or other specialists. You don't have to be a competitive athlete to benefit from targeted exercises and good support."

Sport is a big part of your life – what does it mean to you?

"For me, sport is much more than training or competitions. Sport means friendship, community and unforgettable experiences. Many of my best memories are connected with sport."

"Whether it's the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii or regional events with friends – it's the shared experiences that stay with you. Sport is a part of my quality of life."

Thank you for the interview and best of luck for the rest of the season!

Surf tips

• medi.de/produkte/genumedi-pa
• ots.de/8S7pAn
• medi.de/healthy-life/experience-reports
• tinagrieger.de

Intended purpose: Genumedi® PA is an orthosis for influencing the patellar tracking path.

Source / Photos: medi.de