I know this may sound unbelievable, but I went for a bike ride today. On a bike, on an actual road, for the first time in about three months.
After being out of action for so long this ride was something of an experiment. A benchmark to see just how bad shape I was in. I therefore decided on a fairly easy, 15-odd mile and fairly flat route along the back roads to Carrickfergus, returning via the main A roads. The weather, however, was having none of my “easy” intentions and threw a strong, bitterly cold wind in my face.
And, oh, it was awful.
Well, it was a struggle, especially the hills, and I had to stop a few times as I was dizzy from the effort.
But consider: I’ve had tendon problems requiring medical action, and been really quite ill for some time; weather conditions were not good; going into the ride, I was already tired from physical DIY work the day before.
Despite these things, I still managed to cycle 13.7 miles, and to a lot of people that’s a long way. I’m actually feeling pretty positive about it. The 80k Marie Curie Craigavon Cycle at the end of May is definitely within reach (with a bit of work), and from there the rest of 2011.
It all starts here. Again.
Yep keep on keeping on and dont quit. I’m getting back out on the MTB trails. Still wondering whether to make the transition from road to MTB permanent.
Three months is a long time off the bike, how did you cope? Did you stop your commute for all that time too?
I coped because, frankly, I was in no shape to leave the sofa for much of the time, never mind go to work or do any exercise! I only got itchy feet the first week I was back at work, but thought it sensible to rest for that week too. It was only the week after that that I got on the turbo for half an hour.
Rob, why not both?
I’ll definately do the Marie Curie cycle, it’ll be good training for the Bangor cycle challenge. Hope to get my brothers to do it too!