Thanks to all of you for your support and advice re: my silly knees.
I was in panic mode last week when my doctor confirmed that my knees were just like my sister and dad's. But, I also really, really stressed them by running Timberman. And, being somewhat of a fool, I forgot that I needed to back right off after Timberman. I found myself forgetting that my doctor had very specifically said to build up the mileage ever so slowly.
When I didn't do that, my knees (rightfully) rebelled.
I admit that my knees are fragile. But, they may be able to handle a return to running if I do it wisely (for a change).
The knee has responded really well to my new oh-so-fashionable knee brace. (Perhaps I'll have a trigirl flower stitched on it).
The return to running is going to be super-slow. Case in point: I ran for 5 minutes on Tuesday. Yup - just five.
This morning, after some time on the bike trainer, I ran for 9 minutes. I plan to do a gentle trot of about 10 minutes after an easy bike ride on Saturday.
I'm keeping my fingers crossed (and my knee on ice) that I will be ready for a trail run in December.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Healing
After reflecting a bit and most importantly, checking in with Mark & Grandison, I have a new attitude about the ol' knees:
1. I did not provide full disclosure to my doctor. He doesn't know that I did all of Timberman. In other words, he doesn't know the whole story of the abuse I put my knees through in August.
2. I have had these crazy knees all my life.
3. Perhaps if I allow myself to come back to running very, very slowly, my knees may be able to handle things a little better.
4. This fall is all about healing and maintaining fitness. I'd like to being indoor cycling with fresh, healthy legs.
So all is not lost. Ironman Lake Placid is still on my 2009 calendar.
1. I did not provide full disclosure to my doctor. He doesn't know that I did all of Timberman. In other words, he doesn't know the whole story of the abuse I put my knees through in August.
2. I have had these crazy knees all my life.
3. Perhaps if I allow myself to come back to running very, very slowly, my knees may be able to handle things a little better.
4. This fall is all about healing and maintaining fitness. I'd like to being indoor cycling with fresh, healthy legs.
So all is not lost. Ironman Lake Placid is still on my 2009 calendar.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Knees
I was really dreading this day. But, after what a doctor had told me 4 years ago, I wasn't surprised.
Four years ago, an orthopedic specialist told me that my knees had "issues." And that, under no circumstances, should I run any more long distance races. I knew my family history (both my dad and sister had to stop running due to major knee issues), so I resigned myself to sticking to shorter distances - and maybe looking into other sports (which is what initially enticed me to the sport of triathlon).
I really meant it when I promised myself to stay away from marathons. Ask Carmen. I told her when I first joined Trigirls that I was never running any more marathons. I only signed on to do Ironman Florida when Anna reassured me that "lots of people walk the whole marathon."
But a funny thing happened during training. I could run - and my knees really didn't hurt too much (with the exception of walking up and down stairs - red flag!)
When it came time to do the marathon in Florida, I felt fantastic (apparently, dehydration agrees with me). No pain at all - I was in a dream world.
I didn't feel quite so joyful while running the Richmond marathon, but I did somehow (miraculously) qualify for Boston - a dream I never thought I'd achieve (especially with my knee prognosis).
But, the doctor four years ago was right.
My knees are not built for long-distance running.
In fact, I have the exact same issue as my dad and my sister. Or - as the doctor described it yesterday, "Your knee caps are totally screwed up."
You see, my knee caps (otherwise known as the patellas) are simply in the wrong place. They are too high and too far to the outside. This causes them to track crazily - and eventually wear down cartilage. No cartilage = lots of pain....which can lead to major arthritis if you don't watch it.
It's not anything I've done wrong - and physical therapy really won't cure it. It's just the way my knees are put together. It was in the genes.
My sister underwent "patellar realignment" surgery - which is as bad as it sounds. It involves moving your whole kneecap and all that's connected to it. One can expect about 6-8 weeks on crutches plus months of physical therapy. She said the recovery was the worst. She was supposed to have the other knee operated on, but decided against it after the ordeal with her first knee. The doctor (in his honest way) said that particular surgery "just plain sucks."
It turns out that I am a good candidate. But I'd rather not undergo that surgery.
Instead, I'm taking the conservative approach (which included draining the knee, bracing the knee and a big ol' yummy cortisone shot). I'll stick to biking, swimming, strength training - and maybe pick up some new "stuff" (yoga? pilates?). I hope to eventually be able to run short distances again, too.
Maybe I'll just do sprint distance triathlons - or maybe do a lot of aquabiking. I really don't know right now.
To quote my favorite triathlete (Rick, of course), "Time will tell." Luckily, I don't define myself by the ability to complete an Ironman race or run a marathon. I enjoy those activities (and adore my training partners) - but there really is more to my life than just those activities. Thankfully.
Four years ago, an orthopedic specialist told me that my knees had "issues." And that, under no circumstances, should I run any more long distance races. I knew my family history (both my dad and sister had to stop running due to major knee issues), so I resigned myself to sticking to shorter distances - and maybe looking into other sports (which is what initially enticed me to the sport of triathlon).
I really meant it when I promised myself to stay away from marathons. Ask Carmen. I told her when I first joined Trigirls that I was never running any more marathons. I only signed on to do Ironman Florida when Anna reassured me that "lots of people walk the whole marathon."
But a funny thing happened during training. I could run - and my knees really didn't hurt too much (with the exception of walking up and down stairs - red flag!)
When it came time to do the marathon in Florida, I felt fantastic (apparently, dehydration agrees with me). No pain at all - I was in a dream world.
I didn't feel quite so joyful while running the Richmond marathon, but I did somehow (miraculously) qualify for Boston - a dream I never thought I'd achieve (especially with my knee prognosis).
But, the doctor four years ago was right.
My knees are not built for long-distance running.
In fact, I have the exact same issue as my dad and my sister. Or - as the doctor described it yesterday, "Your knee caps are totally screwed up."
You see, my knee caps (otherwise known as the patellas) are simply in the wrong place. They are too high and too far to the outside. This causes them to track crazily - and eventually wear down cartilage. No cartilage = lots of pain....which can lead to major arthritis if you don't watch it.
It's not anything I've done wrong - and physical therapy really won't cure it. It's just the way my knees are put together. It was in the genes.
My sister underwent "patellar realignment" surgery - which is as bad as it sounds. It involves moving your whole kneecap and all that's connected to it. One can expect about 6-8 weeks on crutches plus months of physical therapy. She said the recovery was the worst. She was supposed to have the other knee operated on, but decided against it after the ordeal with her first knee. The doctor (in his honest way) said that particular surgery "just plain sucks."
It turns out that I am a good candidate. But I'd rather not undergo that surgery.
Instead, I'm taking the conservative approach (which included draining the knee, bracing the knee and a big ol' yummy cortisone shot). I'll stick to biking, swimming, strength training - and maybe pick up some new "stuff" (yoga? pilates?). I hope to eventually be able to run short distances again, too.
Maybe I'll just do sprint distance triathlons - or maybe do a lot of aquabiking. I really don't know right now.
To quote my favorite triathlete (Rick, of course), "Time will tell." Luckily, I don't define myself by the ability to complete an Ironman race or run a marathon. I enjoy those activities (and adore my training partners) - but there really is more to my life than just those activities. Thankfully.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Congratulations!
to Ironman Wisconsin finishers: Dr Rick, Blake and first-timer Aimee G. It sure was fun to track you all!
And now our attention turns to the Chesapeakeman full (Karen B) and aquabikers (IMFLers + Molly) - as well as the Ironman Arizona and Florida people.
If memory serves me (and sometimes mine doesn't), you are now hitting your peak training weeks. The good news is you can eat a LOT. Of course, you'll be burning massive calories as a result of your major workouts.
Stay hydrated and rested!
And now our attention turns to the Chesapeakeman full (Karen B) and aquabikers (IMFLers + Molly) - as well as the Ironman Arizona and Florida people.
If memory serves me (and sometimes mine doesn't), you are now hitting your peak training weeks. The good news is you can eat a LOT. Of course, you'll be burning massive calories as a result of your major workouts.
Stay hydrated and rested!
Friday, September 5, 2008
Hi there
It's me. Just wanted you all to know that I am alive and well.
I am currently in the "I am not training for anything mode" (at last) - and I love it. I absolutely LOVE training. But, I also love some down time. Yes - for the first time in two years (seriously), I can just be silly on a Friday night. Yum to the dirty martinis....
Belated congratulations to the complete stud IM Louisville finishers (honestly- WHY do people do that race???) - that would be the sweet Carlton, Som (who has now completed 1 million ironman races), and our beloved (and speedy) TG Joan. Major hugs and love to you all!
So very sad for the TGs who can't do the Patriot half tomorrow due to Tropical storm Hanna. Being a total psycho (at least i admit it), I would do whatever I could to sign up for another half this fall. But that's me - and I don't think I'm the greatest role model all the time.
"Why do you say that, Susie Q?" (or perhaps you've fallen asleep by now?)
Alas - I'm dealing with some unexpected knee pain (knee pain is not a typical issue for me - so I am a bit freaked out right now) ...which may have been brought on by my good/bad idea to do the whole Timberman race. But..no matter how much my body is rebelling right now (why ya gotta be that way?), I finished an official 70.3 with one of my brothers. I will never regret that.
More later..
In the meantime...happy wishes for a great race to Blakey, Dr Rick and Aimee G (Milo misses you). Hugs to you, crazy kids!!! And hi to Sarah L. Have fun out in the heartland :)
I am currently in the "I am not training for anything mode" (at last) - and I love it. I absolutely LOVE training. But, I also love some down time. Yes - for the first time in two years (seriously), I can just be silly on a Friday night. Yum to the dirty martinis....
Belated congratulations to the complete stud IM Louisville finishers (honestly- WHY do people do that race???) - that would be the sweet Carlton, Som (who has now completed 1 million ironman races), and our beloved (and speedy) TG Joan. Major hugs and love to you all!
So very sad for the TGs who can't do the Patriot half tomorrow due to Tropical storm Hanna. Being a total psycho (at least i admit it), I would do whatever I could to sign up for another half this fall. But that's me - and I don't think I'm the greatest role model all the time.
"Why do you say that, Susie Q?" (or perhaps you've fallen asleep by now?)
Alas - I'm dealing with some unexpected knee pain (knee pain is not a typical issue for me - so I am a bit freaked out right now) ...which may have been brought on by my good/bad idea to do the whole Timberman race. But..no matter how much my body is rebelling right now (why ya gotta be that way?), I finished an official 70.3 with one of my brothers. I will never regret that.
More later..
In the meantime...happy wishes for a great race to Blakey, Dr Rick and Aimee G (Milo misses you). Hugs to you, crazy kids!!! And hi to Sarah L. Have fun out in the heartland :)
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Timberman 70.3 - part 2
My trip to my homeland started with a visit to Kennebunkport, Maine to see my Dad and Stepmom. They treated me to a great dinner, complete with fantastic wine (I came by my love of wine naturally). I can't even describe how relaxing it was to sit on the back deck, looking out on the saltmarshes to the Atlantic Ocean. We were entertained by hummingbirds, Goldfinches and Baltimore Orioles (as in the bird - not the ball players). Of course, I was thinking, "Why do I really need to do another race? I could just stay here."
I headed back to New Hampshire on Thursday. After all, it was my brother Matt's birthday. Matt, by the way, had a great race at Timberman. He finished in 5:30, which was topped off with a super-strong run (1:47). It must've been all those good birthday vibes that contributed to his speedy day.
It was during the birthday dinner that Matt mentioned how much fun it would've been to see each other on the run. This casual comment got my little wheels turning....maybe I could just walk the run...or run half of it...or something.
On Friday, Coach Blake arrived, along with one of my other brothers (and his three awesome sons). Ask Blake to tell you what it's like to go on a Boston Red Sox-themed cornfield maze adventure with me, my mom, and my three nephews. Never a dull moment in the Leahy household!
We enjoyed a laidback pizza dinner on Friday. By this time, two of my sisters-in-law had joined the party. In fact, it really felt like a party! Remember: beer does contain carbs.
On Saturday, Matt, Blake and I headed up to the Timberman registration. Alas, I discovered, despite an email plea, I was still registered as an aquabiker. I tentatively asked the lady in charge (Clare)if I "could-possibly-even-though-I-know-I'm-a-pain-and-it's-okay-if-you-say-no" switch back to the full 70.3 race. She smiled and said, "Yes."
I was in. Gulp.
I completely scored with my transition spot. I was right on the end with lots of space. I also happened to be right next to the wetsuit stripping area AND the start of the run. The only negative was I was fairly far away from the bike start & finish. While I racked my bike, I couldn't help to notice the fairly large waves that the wind kicked up on the lake. This ain't no White Lake, people.
After a 2:30 a.m. wake-up call (you read that right), we - after a quick stop for coffee - headed to the race. We arrived on site close to 4:00 a.m. We were able to park about three rows away from the transition area. I tucked myself in for another hour of rest. Believe it or not, I was able to fall asleep until close to 5:00 a.m. From there, it was the usual pre-race routine (and futile efforts to keep the nerves at bay).
The Swim:
First, the lake is absolutely gorgeous. It was very well-marked (a big relief after IM Brazil). We had plenty of fanfare before the start with the singing of the National Anthem (and the Canadian National Anthem) while crazy guys parachuted in. Yup - kinda like the start of the Super Bowl!
My big goal was to stay calm for once. I started off - and worked to get into a comfortable stroke as soon as possible. No panic attacks! I even managed to hang with my red cap wave for most of the time. However, after the final turn, I (along with everyone else) was slapped in the face constantly by chop. I swallowed a big gulp of water - and had to stop while I coughed and sputtered (and panicked a bit). I quickly realized that it was easier to swim when my head was IN the water, so off I went.
I am not used to being in such an early wave, so it was tricky and somewhat unnerving for me (just as Kate O mentioned in her blog) to stake out my spot in the water. At one point, I literally used some dude behind me as a swim wall. As he was trying to swim over me, I kicked off of him (both legs, mind you). He backed off. Don't mess with a trigirl!
Next time, I need to become more comfortable swimming more and sighting less. I think my habit of sighting so much definitely slows me down. Luckily, IM Lake Placid looks as well-marked as Timberman.
The Bike:
When you are surrounded by male swim waves (as we were), you will most likely be passed on the bike...a lot (unless your name is Chrissie Wellington, of course). It seemed that everyone was passing me. But, really now, a 35-year old guy should be a little stronger than me, so I decided to just ride my own race. Like a dummy, I forgot to reset my bike computer, so it really wasn't of much use to me. I decided to just ride like Molly W. Molly rode a perfectly-paced bike split at White Lake. She had a great negative split and was smiling (as she left me in the dust). I kept repeating, "Just ride like Molly." Before I knew it, I was near the turn-around. I (being very sentimental) got teary thinking about seeing my mom. There she was - waiting with a big smile on her face. I turned around to wave at her one more time - and nearly crashed. Yikes. Along the way, I saw Kate O, Shawnie, Lynn and Sarah. My brother Matt passed me in the last 8 miles. By the way, riding the Blue Ridge in preparation for Timberman was a very good idea.
The Run:
In my other half-ironman races, my half-marathon times have all been within a minute or two. However, with this race, I had to focus simply on just doing the run. I didn't worry about my time. I just thought about getting from one water stop to another. The run course was not flat, but it did have spectacular views of the lake. I saw everyone out there - my brother, Blake, Karen, Kate O, Shawn, Lynn, Fave, Melissa, Sharon, Bethany & Bart, Mary, Patti and Sarah. The crowd support, especially at the finish line, was outstanding. They even played music and announced all the finishers - just like a full Ironman.
Matt waited for me at the finish line. We grabbed our freeze pops,towels, medals, and water bottles - and headed to the lake. Blake joined us for a post-race cool down. It felt great to sit in that lake!
Because my time with my family was limited, my brother and I headed out of there fairly quickly. I'm sorry I didn't get to hang out post-race with my fellow trigirls - but I knew Mom was at home waiting - with a hug and a beer. I'd say she's a keeper!
I headed back to New Hampshire on Thursday. After all, it was my brother Matt's birthday. Matt, by the way, had a great race at Timberman. He finished in 5:30, which was topped off with a super-strong run (1:47). It must've been all those good birthday vibes that contributed to his speedy day.
It was during the birthday dinner that Matt mentioned how much fun it would've been to see each other on the run. This casual comment got my little wheels turning....maybe I could just walk the run...or run half of it...or something.
On Friday, Coach Blake arrived, along with one of my other brothers (and his three awesome sons). Ask Blake to tell you what it's like to go on a Boston Red Sox-themed cornfield maze adventure with me, my mom, and my three nephews. Never a dull moment in the Leahy household!
We enjoyed a laidback pizza dinner on Friday. By this time, two of my sisters-in-law had joined the party. In fact, it really felt like a party! Remember: beer does contain carbs.
On Saturday, Matt, Blake and I headed up to the Timberman registration. Alas, I discovered, despite an email plea, I was still registered as an aquabiker. I tentatively asked the lady in charge (Clare)if I "could-possibly-even-though-I-know-I'm-a-pain-and-it's-okay-if-you-say-no" switch back to the full 70.3 race. She smiled and said, "Yes."
I was in. Gulp.
I completely scored with my transition spot. I was right on the end with lots of space. I also happened to be right next to the wetsuit stripping area AND the start of the run. The only negative was I was fairly far away from the bike start & finish. While I racked my bike, I couldn't help to notice the fairly large waves that the wind kicked up on the lake. This ain't no White Lake, people.
After a 2:30 a.m. wake-up call (you read that right), we - after a quick stop for coffee - headed to the race. We arrived on site close to 4:00 a.m. We were able to park about three rows away from the transition area. I tucked myself in for another hour of rest. Believe it or not, I was able to fall asleep until close to 5:00 a.m. From there, it was the usual pre-race routine (and futile efforts to keep the nerves at bay).
The Swim:
First, the lake is absolutely gorgeous. It was very well-marked (a big relief after IM Brazil). We had plenty of fanfare before the start with the singing of the National Anthem (and the Canadian National Anthem) while crazy guys parachuted in. Yup - kinda like the start of the Super Bowl!
My big goal was to stay calm for once. I started off - and worked to get into a comfortable stroke as soon as possible. No panic attacks! I even managed to hang with my red cap wave for most of the time. However, after the final turn, I (along with everyone else) was slapped in the face constantly by chop. I swallowed a big gulp of water - and had to stop while I coughed and sputtered (and panicked a bit). I quickly realized that it was easier to swim when my head was IN the water, so off I went.
I am not used to being in such an early wave, so it was tricky and somewhat unnerving for me (just as Kate O mentioned in her blog) to stake out my spot in the water. At one point, I literally used some dude behind me as a swim wall. As he was trying to swim over me, I kicked off of him (both legs, mind you). He backed off. Don't mess with a trigirl!
Next time, I need to become more comfortable swimming more and sighting less. I think my habit of sighting so much definitely slows me down. Luckily, IM Lake Placid looks as well-marked as Timberman.
The Bike:
When you are surrounded by male swim waves (as we were), you will most likely be passed on the bike...a lot (unless your name is Chrissie Wellington, of course). It seemed that everyone was passing me. But, really now, a 35-year old guy should be a little stronger than me, so I decided to just ride my own race. Like a dummy, I forgot to reset my bike computer, so it really wasn't of much use to me. I decided to just ride like Molly W. Molly rode a perfectly-paced bike split at White Lake. She had a great negative split and was smiling (as she left me in the dust). I kept repeating, "Just ride like Molly." Before I knew it, I was near the turn-around. I (being very sentimental) got teary thinking about seeing my mom. There she was - waiting with a big smile on her face. I turned around to wave at her one more time - and nearly crashed. Yikes. Along the way, I saw Kate O, Shawnie, Lynn and Sarah. My brother Matt passed me in the last 8 miles. By the way, riding the Blue Ridge in preparation for Timberman was a very good idea.
The Run:
In my other half-ironman races, my half-marathon times have all been within a minute or two. However, with this race, I had to focus simply on just doing the run. I didn't worry about my time. I just thought about getting from one water stop to another. The run course was not flat, but it did have spectacular views of the lake. I saw everyone out there - my brother, Blake, Karen, Kate O, Shawn, Lynn, Fave, Melissa, Sharon, Bethany & Bart, Mary, Patti and Sarah. The crowd support, especially at the finish line, was outstanding. They even played music and announced all the finishers - just like a full Ironman.
Matt waited for me at the finish line. We grabbed our freeze pops,towels, medals, and water bottles - and headed to the lake. Blake joined us for a post-race cool down. It felt great to sit in that lake!
Because my time with my family was limited, my brother and I headed out of there fairly quickly. I'm sorry I didn't get to hang out post-race with my fellow trigirls - but I knew Mom was at home waiting - with a hug and a beer. I'd say she's a keeper!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Timberman 70.3 (Part I)
It seems that I didn't quite do what said I was going to do in my last post.
At the very last minute, I switched back to the full 70.3 Timberman adventure.
Why?
Because for the very first time, I was racing with my brother. We talked a little about what it would be like to see each other out there on the course....and I got teary. Maybe, just maybe, I could do the whole thing. I promised myself (and Coach Blake) that I would take it very, very easy on the run.
And for the very first time, my mom would be a spectator - along with my sister-in-law and two of my adorable nephews.
And so...the good people of Timberman very kindly let me switch back to doing the full race.
I nearly cried when they let me back into the full race (or perhaps those were tears of panic?)
I did get choked up when I saw my mom out there - cheering and waving. I looked back to wave at her one more time on the bike course - and nearly crashed into another competitor. Oops - not a good move.
More about the actual race experience later...
But, I will state that Timberman is my very favorite half-ironman race (so far) - as well as the hardest one I've completed yet.
At the very last minute, I switched back to the full 70.3 Timberman adventure.
Why?
Because for the very first time, I was racing with my brother. We talked a little about what it would be like to see each other out there on the course....and I got teary. Maybe, just maybe, I could do the whole thing. I promised myself (and Coach Blake) that I would take it very, very easy on the run.
And for the very first time, my mom would be a spectator - along with my sister-in-law and two of my adorable nephews.
And so...the good people of Timberman very kindly let me switch back to doing the full race.
I nearly cried when they let me back into the full race (or perhaps those were tears of panic?)
I did get choked up when I saw my mom out there - cheering and waving. I looked back to wave at her one more time on the bike course - and nearly crashed into another competitor. Oops - not a good move.
More about the actual race experience later...
But, I will state that Timberman is my very favorite half-ironman race (so far) - as well as the hardest one I've completed yet.
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