In an effort to get some training in for Peru, I joined two fellow trekkers for a walk in the Chilterns, an area of "outstanding natural beauty". It was rated as seven out of 10 in difficulty, about 20km and 5 hours of walking. No problem, I thought.
First the good news: I was not noticeably less fit than either of my counterparts. In parts after steep uphill climbs where I'd be feeling a little warm and out of breath, they seemed to mirror my own reactions -- and most importantly, it didn't take me long to recover. Heart and lungs seem to be in excellent working order.
Continuing the good news theme, my hiking boots are incredibly comfortable and there was not even a hint of a blister or rubbing all day. An excellent buy there, and I think we can safely say they are broken in.
The bad news is I am in incredible pain. Somewhere along the way the steep downhill descents must have proved too much for my knees -- and if you hadn't guessed by the fact I am updating in the middle of the day, I am home from work sick today as I can barely stand up. Completing the walk yesterday was very difficult and painful as my knee became stiffer and more unyielding. The doctor has told me today I have strained the ligaments, and I need to rest it. I can also put an ice pack on it twice a day and take anti-inflammatory drugs three times a day. It's a good job I have a stash of the latter in the cupboard.
My research on the internet tells me this kind of thing is quite common, and unsurprisingly associated with steep downhill descents. I was probably going too quickly. For Peru, if not before, I will need walking poles and a knee support -- and I think a small supply of medication in my luggage.
It's frustrating, I want to be out walking and training in the gym, and right now I can't do either. But I'll crawl the Inca trail on my hands and knees if I have to.
My poor little broken boy. We'll get you fixed up soon, don't worry about that- and you'll be marching up to Machu Pichu (and woah, I have no idea how to spell that... bad girlfriend) before you know it.
ReplyDeletewould it be wrong to take bets on how many more injuries will occur before you get there?
ReplyDelete:O)
Glad the experts reckon it's just a sprain. think of it as if it's your body's way of saying woah cowboy...
I hate life's little practical jokes. "oh, you want to go on a hiking mission? Enjoy our gift of a knee sprain."
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you'll heal nicely. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you!
Hey.
ReplyDeletejust started followin' and was shocked to see the limited followers considerin' how regular and well-written your blogs are. looks like i have a lot to read here (:
anyway all the best, can't wait for future blogs to come.
Amanda: You're not a bad girlfriend for not knowing how to spell the name of the lost city of the Incas! It's not you doing the trek, but your support means the world to me.
ReplyDeleteAli: Yes it would be wrong! And mean! Do you suppose I'll still be able to walk when I come back from Peru?
Jamie: Keep those fingers crossed, I've got a way to go yet. Mostly healed now, I hope, but we can't be too careful.
Scott: I can't tell if you're taking the piss with "regular" and "well written", but I figure you wouldn't be following if you weren't sincere :)
So thank you, high praise indeed from a writer of your caliber.