Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Susanne, I’m 45 years old and I live in beautiful Heidelberg, Germany. I’m really happy to answer your questions and to be part of this amazing Power Woman community.
What role do sports & movement play in your life?
Movement currently plays a key role in my life – it helps me stay pain-free and avoid another surgery. Without regular exercise, nothing really works for me anymore – quite literally.
How did you get into sports, and what do you do today?
I was first diagnosed with scoliosis at the age of six.
Back then, I played tennis regularly – it was part of my daily life for many years. Until the age of 15, I was on the court almost every day. Then came a major turning point: due to the progression of my scoliosis, I had spinal fusion surgery. That meant not only a break from sports but a huge shift in my life overall. Two years later, I cautiously returned to physical activity: spinning, strength training and Tae Bo at the gym.
I discovered road cycling – and eventually running – as my outlet and source of strength.
But I often pushed beyond my limits, ignoring warning signs. That led to injuries: two vertebral fractures, meniscus damage and chronic pain.
Still, I never gave up. I kept searching – and I found my way.
Today, I focus on swimming, functional training and cycling – in a mindful, adapted way, with a deep connection to my body.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Letting go. Letting go of tennis, of running, of riding my bike in the mountains. Each time, it felt like I had to let go of a part of who I was.
But that process made me stronger.
It taught me to listen to my body and find new ways forward – without losing myself.
What do you love about your sport(s)?
Back then, I loved the feeling of freedom on the bike – almost like flying. With running, I loved how effective it was: short on time, but high on impact. I could switch off quickly, go deep, and just reconnect with myself. Today, I especially love swimming. It calms me, supports me, takes the pressure off –and after just a few laps, I often feel almost pain-free. It’s my reset button – my way back into my body.
What tips would you give to other Power Women?
- Don’t compare yourself to others – only to who you were yesterday.
- Listen to your body – it knows what you need.
- Keep going – even small steps lead to big shifts.
What are you currently working on?
Right now, I’m working on improving my swimming technique and I’m really looking forward to my next swim camp. My dream: to one day take part in a 24-hour swim – not for competition, but just for me. My pace. My distance. My goal.
What would you tell your younger self?
You are enough – just as you are. You don’t need to compete with anyone. No one else walks your path.
What gives you strength?
Choosing not to have another surgery again– just because doctors recommended it – but instead, taking full responsibility for my own journey. Trying everything I can before putting myself in someone else’s hands. I train with discipline, I trust my body – and I’ve built a growing network for people with scoliosis with over 2,500 people on Instagram and over 350 in an active WhatsApp community.
We share, support each other – and give one another strength.
You can follow Susanne on Instagram as @skoliose.coach and join her community of Scoliosis fighters
