Month: January 2023

A year later

So I had a rough year in 2022, but that doesn’t define me. I’ve come away for a few days to train and relax. Ponder what to do next! 2022 was all about excess. Excess in every way.

2023 is going to be different. For a start I’ve quit drinking beer, my comfort in hard times and tough times. I’m going to never say never again, but it’s been a month now and I haven’t really missed it. The food has changed too; it is now about fresh unprocessed food. My body is starting to reap the rewards. The scales are starting to say thanks!

I have also extra motivation in that I have been told I am diabetic by the doctor. I am determined to reverse this! A by product of this is that I am getting fitter. I feel positive that I will achieve half Ironman this July!

Also, I am classified as a PTS5 Athlete due to the bone disease and operations that I have had. I’ve decided I am going to attempt the full British Para-Tri series. But first I need to fit into my wetsuits. The pressure is on as I estimate I need to lose another 3 stone before May and the first race. I’ve done it before I know I can do it again. I can’t help but have an eye on the Para-Duathlon but I know this is not realistic.

Mentally I’m in a much better place too. I feel good, it has been a while since I could honestly say that though. I’m looking at the calendar rooting for the good weather to arrive. End of March I’m hoping!

Bounding along

I have had an interesting time since I last blogged in November.  I also had a first; I have been playing Badminton most Saturdays for over a year.  Every game I have lost – I am not that competitive, honestly!  Well Last time we played I only went and won.  This is a big achievement and shows the character I have by not giving up for 52 consecutive weeks.

I have also started training again with some friends, several times I’ve been swimming before work with a friend, Tom. Then I have also been training before work with Sam on the turbo.  Linda has also entered Etwall Triathlon so we have his and hers turbos set up in the Pain Cave.

I am also embracing my dietary goals and eating a lot healthier.  However, I have still sunk the odd cheeky beer at the local.  The weight is starting to shift a little and I am feeling positive again.  I have realised, despite this journey being called ‘Bipolar Ironman’ that my biggest challenge is my mental health.  For when I am down and depressed I self-medicate with food.

 

To look at what I had 2 years ago in terms of fitness and where I was at makes me realise just how much I valued the feeling of health and comfort in my own body. This is why I keep going, this is why I don’t quit and this is why I will become an Ironman. I have entered the Holkham Half Ironman in July and this is my ‘A’ race for the year. I am also determined to keep to a schedule as I really want to give the Para-Triathlon the full attention it deserves.