Three thoughts for today.
First, tomorrow I get a checkup with the podiatrist. I think they will determine if I can step down out of the boot to the next level. Both nervous and excited.
Second, return to work is approaching fast now. First week, 1/2 time then full time, although the holiday weeks will make it a little easier. So hopefully, 3 easier weeks will help me ease back into the working world. I refuse to say “real world”, hate that expression, because quite frankly these last 6 weeks have been quite real, thank you very much 🙂
Finally, breathing. In the hospital, already a month ago (wow!), I was given a respirometer. It reads from 0 to 4.25 liters. On 11/14, I was able to get about 1.5 liters. Given learning curve and anxiety, let’s say I was about 2 liters. Today, I hit 4.5 liters (guessing since I topped out on its scale and kept going). That means on 11/14, my lung capacity was about 30 to 40% of what it is now, and yet my oxygen levels were very good without supplementation. Granted, some exertion dropped it down but still it was very good .. I guess all has not been lost with my fitness. I do worry a little, and will probably get a thorough heart exam, as my exercise capacity returns. Better safe than sorry.
But, the third point really makes me think that a good part of good running and endurance may not have ANYTHING to do with the legs, but good posture and breathing mechanics. I guess maybe what I learned from all this explains at least in part why I end up sucking wind in races sometimes, and feel that total body “anaerobic” feeling.
Day by day, step by step, the light at the end of the tunnel approaches.
Rolf Arands, Runner 