Surprise! Surprise! Surprise!

Two days ago, Jan 8, 2008, I decided to see George for a check-up. I figured, I’d see him before I started my workouts anew and also get an inclination of the measure of progress of my knee in his expert opinion. As he proceeded with examining my knee, I went about telling him how bad I was during the holidays. George just smirked and gave me the “Yup, I knew were going to do that” look. I figured better to be honest and tell him everything and face the consequences. Anyway I was resigned to the fact that my partying during the holidays probably cost me a delay of one month in my recovery. So by that count, I’ll be running on March instead of February. After his examination, George looked at me and gave me the big surprise. He said, “Ok, you can start running already.” I couldn’t believe it. I had to ask him at least three more times. Wow.

After clarifying what I can and can’t do as far as running is concerned, I announced to my therapists that Doc gave me the GO signal to run. They were as surprised as I was and they cheered me on as I walked out of the clinic door.

The following morning, I went to the gym excited as hell. I went through my strengthening workout religiously as George reminded me how important it was now that I was going to start running already. He also told me to do heavier weights to further build the strength in my legs and knees, so I did.

As I stepped on the treadmill, there were a million thoughts on my mind. I was telling myself, “You’re finally going to run again” but at the same time, I was also telling myself, “Take it easy”. For my first run, I ran for 15 minutes as George prescribed. The first 5 minutes was crazy but fun. I was constantly analyzing my strides, feeling my knee, and trying to catch a pattern for my breathing. I think I was still in disbelief that I was running. The next 5 minutes was tougher. I was catching my breath as if I was already on my 5th kilometer. However, by the time I reached my 12th minute, I got my step back and got both my rhythm in my breathing and my stride. It felt good that by the time I reached 15 minutes, I wanted to run more. But I was quick to tell myself, “Enough”. So I just settled for the stationary bike instead.

Today, Jan 10, 2008, I was back in the gym again for another round. I felt so high; I just had to go back. Anyway, I wasn’t going to try anything fancy. I just did exactly the same routine as yesterday. Today was even better. I ran with a consistent stride and did not feel the fatigue as yesterday. But I also kept a comfortable pace both in my run and my bike as didn’t want to risk overdoing it.

I’m so happy! This for me is big progress. I figured I just have to keep my mindset of being disciplined and patient and just focus on strengthening rather than endurance and I’ll be on my way. I feel great!!!