Last Friday, my body rejected the advice of my mind that was telling me not to get out and ride for fear that I would reinjure my knee or blow out the other one. I find that the mind can often trick the body into not doing or doing what it should or should not do. In my case, I desperately needed to get out and ride the open road. Months of indoor spinning and monitoring my knee had begun to bore me. I needed to test my rehabbed knee and take it to the road.
So I defiantly stapped on my helmet, fastened my gloves, stepped into my cleats, clad in the most fashionable lycra, and wrap around shades, I mounted my bike for the first time this season. Oh that first ride felt as fresh as the spring air. I tore off down my hilly street into the wind, savoring the familiar click of the gears, my legs spinning to an easy cadence as I ventured out onto the main street. I felt as cocky as can be, riding along side cars, smiling cheek to cheek as I could easily keep up with them. Oh how I love road biking – nothing could stop me, bad knees, fear of traffic, cars, death. As long as I am able I’ll keep riding to my dying day. I made this pledge last Friday.
I quickly noticed how much stronger I am since my last fall ride in October. Five months in physical therapy, a new training program since rehabbing my knee and I am better balanced, more flexible, and stabile. My body easily absorbed the shock of the road with minimal fatigue. I felt like Lance crossing the finish line in the Tour de France.
Friday was a small yet significant victory for me. I’m glad and thankful to be back in the saddle again!
