Brian’s fitness journal after a brain stroke
Today has been pleasantly relaxing, not because I have been idle, but because everything has gone according to plan. A recovery after a long run is important.
Most of my chores are finished, and I even made up the weighted squat holds that I skipped yesterday.
Normally, I prefer not to miss a scheduled workout. However, after yesterday’s 10-kilometer run, I was simply exhausted. Between summer yard work, regular training, and the occasional surprise from the weather—or even one poor night’s sleep—my body had clearly voted against any additional exercise.
When your body casts a unanimous vote, it is usually wise not to overrule it.
So, after a brief consultation with my most important training partner—my own body—I decided to skip the workout.
Today was a different story.
By this morning, I felt refreshed enough to make up the missed exercises. Sundays are usually reserved for lighter activities anyway. That lighter schedule gives my body time to recover from a week of work, running, and whatever landscaping projects decide to appear in the yard. After a Saturday 10K, I generally welcome the opportunity to slow down.
Ironically, because I had skipped yesterday’s strength session, I had enough energy to comfortably complete it today.
One lesson I continue to learn is that improvement and recovery are not always the same thing.
Treating my anemia has certainly helped my running. I have more energy, and my pace has steadily improved. Unfortunately, treatment does not magically speed up recovery.
Part of the challenge comes from my kidney condition. Since I need to limit my protein intake, I cannot simply increase my nutrition the way many athletes do after strenuous exercise. Building strength and recovering well are not just about muscles—they also depend on keeping the body’s vital organs healthy. Fitness is a balancing act, and sometimes restraint is just as important as effort.
Tomorrow’s weather forecast has already introduced the next challenge.
Rain appears to be moving in, so the earlier I start my morning run, the better my chances of staying dry. Unlike today, when I happily remained in bed for an extra hour, tomorrow morning will require considerably more discipline.
Apparently, even the weather enjoys testing my commitment.
Still, that’s part of the routine.
Some days, the challenge is running farther. Other days, it’s knowing when to rest. And occasionally, the greatest athletic achievement is convincing yourself to leave a warm bed before sunrise.