Ski Day II

Roller Day

I've been spending more time on the rollers and I'm finally getting the hang of it. Haven't had an embarassing crash as of yet. Warm-up 15-20 minutes on the rollers and than the remaining portion on the trainer watching one of many Spinervals DVD's.

Ski Day

My son and I spent the day on the ski hill's on Sunday. His snowboarding has really improved since last year. Even did some tricks but my photography skills don't do it justice.

Nobody looks good in a helmet.

Back in the Weight Room

To stick to one of my goals this year I was able to get to the gym today. The main goal was to be in the gym 3 times a week. So far I've been able to accomplish this. I've been trying to follow a program that was developed for me a few years ago. Basically is splits legs and arms onto one day and back, shoulders and chest onto another one. This program seems to allow better recovery. The program for today was:

• Squats - 5 x 12-15 (90 - 160lbs)
• Calf raises - 3 x 15 (50 - 70lbs)
• Leg Extensions - 5 x 12-15 (70 - 110lbs)
• Hamstring Curls - 5 x 12 - 15 (40 - 70lbs) I know that I have really weak hamstrings
• Leg Presses - 5 x 12 - 15 (180 - 250)

Once completed did some stretching and headed home for some dinner. If the weather gets above freezing tomorrow and no precipitation than I might try a road ride. If not, than the rollers and trainer will have to suffice.

Also, was at the hosptial this morning for some tests. Everything looks fine but I need to go back in February to check and see if the device in my chest is working properly. Basically this means that they stop my heart and than let the device restart it. I hope.

A Day in the Life

This year I've made a decision to try and get the bike out on the road more often. Although it's two weeks into the new year and I've only been out three times. If the weather is above freezing and the roads are dry and than I'll venture out.

Tonight was 10 minutes on the rollers and 30 minutes on the trainer. Once I get more comfortable riding on the rollers I'll increase the time. I remember when I was in my twenties I could just jump on and ride forever. Now it's a little more difficult. I find that I can't watch tv and if I lose consideration than it's easy to slip off.

Tomorrow I'm in the hospital to check on my new bionic device. Everything is healed and I feel fine so I don't suspect any surprises. Other than the big bump on my chest and the scar.

Reflections

Since the beginning of the new year I've had the time to reflect on the past few years and what has happened in my life the past few years. I must admit the 2006 and 2007 were not great years. Through adversity one becomes a stronger person. If that is the case I should be able lift a Buick. A brief summary of some of the things that occurred over those two years.

1. 4 year relationship ended which resulted in the selling of our beautiful newly built home


2. This also resulted in me moving back into the city (this sucked)


3. In the fall my career came to a screeching halt as the company I worked for shut down my division


4. Took contract job in Regina, Saskatchewan (this also sucked)


5. Start of 2007 took a temporary position with another company


6. This came to an end in October but was quickly picked up by another company that I developed a software product a few years previously. Lesson - Don't burn bridges


7. Diagnosed with heart arrhythmia. Had an ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) planted in my chest as a precaution

In summary the road has been challenging but I continue to ramble on. My health is still good and continue to train with the same vigour. This blog will update you on my training and personal activities. Hopefully this will be insightful for all who read.

What's been happening

I had a few friends asking why the post hasn't been updated in quite some time. I thought that it might be a good idea to start updating once again. This will be good timing as I've had some medical work done in the last few months and will be racing mountain bikes this year.