A momentary smooth patch

Far out. If you’re one of the few who battles entertaining the thought of pavement pounding or spinning on a bike only to get off on the same spot drenched, exhausted, some time on. Or one of the few who can think of a 100 better ways to spend recreational energy than swimming, biking and running, well, this week I could relate. Totally.

Starting out is always a mess. I’m a mess. Feels like my torso is running alongside my legs, while each leg is running in a different direction. Feels like someone has turned off the oxygen supply (but only where I’m breathing) on the Bergpad. Feels like the road is only ever uphill on the bike, and standing out the saddle is more like a teenage kid at a first disco than a “dance on the pedals”. The swim, well, something like being at altitude for the first week, only I’m not. I’m in the Bosch. Where breathing every stroke isnt as accepted.

Joking aside, I appreciate this time as it allows me to relate to those who battle to experiece the passion and enjoyment I do from my sport. It allows me to appreciate form, progression, and the build up. A metaphor for life, yet again, that all great chapters start humbly, step by step.

There usually is a breakthrough moment or two. And I’ll call them a “momentary smooth patch”. Momentary, as coach Gary will read this, up my volume, and tomorrow I’ll find myself grovelling again. You’ll know the breakthrough when it finds you. Unlike walking three times on Thursday’s jog, I actually managed to hold conversation with Michal on the long run yesterday… And today’s ride didnt bring tears to my eyes while fantazing about soft cushions to sit on…

If you’re starting out, hang in there. The first few weeks are brutal. Dont jump to conclusions too quickly. Persevere, enjoy the moment, and soon you’ll be on a “momentary smooth patch” of your own.