MSers In Training 2011

[AMFADVENTURES]

5/6/2011

Got 9.25 hours this week for about 135 miles. I’m closing in on a 15-mph average, up from 13 earlier in the season, so am undoubtedly making better progress than perhaps I sometimes think. Will start to extend my climbing rides tomorrow.

My VO2 (volume of oxygen) test went pretty good. Overall I ranked at the level of a recreational athlete, not great aerobic capacity or power but not bad either. There was a pretty significant difference in the strength between my right and left leg, depending on muscle groups involved, but I guess I already knew that. I was advised to get back to the weight room and work on everything, in particular, my right leg. One thing the physiologist emphasized was to select a couple of muscle groups each week and lift heavy weight with fewer repetitions. His reasoning, in addition to the strength aspect, was that more neural networks were involved in lifting heavier weight, inferring I guess, that the neural networks need a workout too. If you ever get a chance to do a VO2 test I’d highly recommend it, if for no other reason than finding the heart rate ranges you should be exercising at and learning the stages your body goes through at the different heart rates required for an endurance sport.

Dave, the other thing the sports physiologist said was to take it a little easier, develop my base a little more. It looks like you’re doing that the right way. Are you looking at riding in the NM MS 150 later this year?

Gees Pell, 33 miles @ 17 mph with an average HR of 129! That’s nothing short of phenomenal, well done.

Stella, one more thing, incase your brain isn’t already exploding. Many MSers, myself included, report periods of increased mental stress as a trigger for relapses. To whatever extent I can, I refrain from getting involved in potentially stressful situations. That could also be another reason that exercise seems to be so helpful to MSers, as it is thought to relieve some of the harmful effects of mental stress.

Later all,

[Stella]

Hi Pell,

thanks for the wonderful advice. I will definitely start making a list of the questions I have and really make sure I understand. I will also address the issue of the foot drop and see what the specialist thinks.

Your bike rides sound so exhilarating! 33 miles today and now 63 miles tomorrow, my lord that is amazing! Keep up the great work!

Well, today, I was to go to the gym but when it came to it, I was too tired when the alarm rang, I just hit the snooze. So I will have to try again on Sunday. What is DH?

Good luck tomorrow and have lots of fun!

[pawpaw]

Stella,
My guess is that your leg problem is foot drop and it is a common MS symptom. If it is causing problems, there are splints that go in your shoe and onto the back of your leg to hold the foot up.
I don't think pushing your activity level can hurt. I push myself much harder than I thought was possible a few years ago. Hopefully, your doctor will agree. If not, I might look for another doc. My doctor has been amazed and very pleased with what I am able to do. Keep a list of all of the questions you have and ask your doctor. Don't be intimidated because he is the specialist. Be sure you get answers to all of your questions and that you understand everything that he/she says. It is amazing how much I forget when I get into his office.
We rode 33 miles today- our usual Friday ride- on the single bikes and I felt great. We finished at just over 17mph and I wasn't completely whipped. Average HR 129, max HR 149. I pushed pretty hard and had to slow up a bit near the end, but still finished pretty strong. My DH was struggling to keep up!
Tomorrow, if the weather cooperates, we hope to ride 63 miles on the tandem.
Keep riding.

Pell

[Stella]

Hey Stella,
A DMD is a Disease Modifying Drug, sorry I’m probably not much help to you because the closest I ever came to taking one was Lipitor. That was based on a couple of studies I saw in the late 1990’s which indicated that Lipitor was nearly as effective at reducing progression as the FDA approved DMD’s available at that time. I stopped the Lipitor 3 or 4 years ago when I accidentally figured out that it was responsible for the escalating muscle and joint pain that I had been experiencing. However, I suspect that a DMD or other treatment option is in my future. Gilenya appears to be the most promising at this time.

Like Pell, I credit endurance exercise for the relatively minimal progression of my MS over the last 7 or 8 years although, I concede it may not be in the best interests of everyone. And like Dave, I think that staying active is one of the best therapies for MS. I also think it’s important to eat right, low animal fat intake, plenty of fruits, vegetables, and grains and otherwise maintain as healthy a lifestyle as you can. Hope the new neuro works out well for you.

BTW, great video clip, might have to look for one of those helmet cams, it can get pretty exciting on the bike path on a Saturday morning.

Thanks Larry, I should have known DMD was something like that. It is good to hear your MS has been minimal progression. You, Pell and Dave have really inspired me into more vigorous excercise. Let's see if I can keep it up! I will also try and eat more healthy foods. Glad you enjoyed the video clip!

[AMFADVENTURES]

Hey Stella,
A DMD is a Disease Modifying Drug, sorry I’m probably not much help to you because the closest I ever came to taking one was Lipitor. That was based on a couple of studies I saw in the late 1990’s which indicated that Lipitor was nearly as effective at reducing progression as the FDA approved DMD’s available at that time. I stopped the Lipitor 3 or 4 years ago when I accidentally figured out that it was responsible for the escalating muscle and joint pain that I had been experiencing. However, I suspect that a DMD or other treatment option is in my future. Gilenya appears to be the most promising at this time.

Like Pell, I credit endurance exercise for the relatively minimal progression of my MS over the last 7 or 8 years although, I concede it may not be in the best interests of everyone. And like Dave, I think that staying active is one of the best therapies for MS. I also think it’s important to eat right, low animal fat intake, plenty of fruits, vegetables, and grains and otherwise maintain as healthy a lifestyle as you can. Hope the new neuro works out well for you.

BTW, great video clip, might have to look for one of those helmet cams, it can get pretty exciting on the bike path on a Saturday morning.

[Stella]

That bike ride was wild!
I am still on the Gilenya and just working to overcome the effects on my exercise tolerance. I am more fit than most with MS, so my situation is a bit unique. I am taking the Gilenya to try to avoid the longterm cognitive issues that seem to come with MS.
I have had MS for over 10 years. About 5 years ago I quit my full time job partially because of the severe fatigue I was experiencing. With a bit more time on my hands, I realized that it was my responsibility to change anything that I could in terms of my health. I started a diet and exercise plan and lost 30#. At first, I couldn't exercise for more than 30 minutes. I pushed my limits almost every day- frequently I napped longer than I exercised. After about 6 months, I could briskly walk for an hour or do the elliptical machine for 45 minutes very fast. Then I started to run. Two years ago I trained to run a half-marathon. I didn't complete it due to unseasonable heat that day, but I had run 12 miles 2 weeks before. Shortly after that, I started cycling. We bought road bikes exactly 2 years ago and started riding like crazy. Luckily, my DH has been bitten by this passion as well, so we ride together. We rode two century rides (100 miles) the first year. We plan to ride the Horsey Hundred in a couple of weeks on the tandem.
I truely believe that vigorous aerobic exercise is a vital part of treatment for MS and for general well being. People who haven't seen me in years are amazed at my appearance. My MRI has shown very little progression in years and I have had no exacerbations, despite the fact that I was off all meds for almost two years. My fatigue has basically disappeared- except after long bike rides and that is probably just exhaustion.
So, I think Dave has it right. Exercise is the most important thing we can do for ourselves. I do think the DMD are an important part of the picture.
Stella, I couldn't "hear" my diagnosis of MS for nearly a year, so I didn't get on meds as soon as I should have. If the doctor used probably or most likely in our discussion, I just kept thinking, well maybe I don't have MS. I think it is normal to be in shock for a while. I am glad you are seeing the specialist soon. Keep doing your research and make a written list of questions you have for your visit. Everyone is different, but the Gilenya has been the easiest drug to take. I was on Avonex for a year and Copaxone for over 2 years.
The Queen makes private visits to our area every few years. I believe she even has some horses boarded at the Farish farm. We ride bikes by the farm (mansion) where she stays when in the Bluegrass area.
Sorry for the longwinded reply
Pell

Hi Pell,

lovely to hear from you and thank you for your reply. I do appreciate any advice. You really sound very admirable and you have given me the motivation to get out there and give it my all. Although I have been going to the gym every other day, I am thinking perhaps trying to extend it to an everyday thing. Other than when it is hot weather, do you have any problems when you walk or run now? I have an annoying limp. I don't know if it has anything to do with the MS as I twisted my ankle horribly a while back and it has taken a while to heal. But I have noticed that when I run, after a while, my right leg starts to drag and then I have to cut my run short. This is something that has happened within the last six months. I especially feel really self conscious when I am walking and someone asks me if I've hurt my leg. So I try to lift my right leg a bit more. But that is very admirable you almost completed the half marathon! Well done! I wouldn't worry that you didn't complete it because of the weather as you proved to yourself that you could do the distance whilst training. Your cycling experiences sound wonderful and it sounds as if you are getting the most of what you want out of your cycling and most important, living your life to its fullest!

I appreciate hearing of experiences with medications, in case I get put on a certain one at least I will know what I might expect. I feel stupid for asking but what is DMD?

It doesn't surprise me about the Queen owning some horses in Kentucky. She really loves her horse racing.

Anyway, I hope you are enjoying your day!

Stella

[pawpaw]

That bike ride was wild!
I am still on the Gilenya and just working to overcome the effects on my exercise tolerance. I am more fit than most with MS, so my situation is a bit unique. I am taking the Gilenya to try to avoid the longterm cognitive issues that seem to come with MS.
I have had MS for over 10 years. About 5 years ago I quit my full time job partially because of the severe fatigue I was experiencing. With a bit more time on my hands, I realized that it was my responsibility to change anything that I could in terms of my health. I started a diet and exercise plan and lost 30#. At first, I couldn't exercise for more than 30 minutes. I pushed my limits almost every day- frequently I napped longer than I exercised. After about 6 months, I could briskly walk for an hour or do the elliptical machine for 45 minutes very fast. Then I started to run. Two years ago I trained to run a half-marathon. I didn't complete it due to unseasonable heat that day, but I had run 12 miles 2 weeks before. Shortly after that, I started cycling. We bought road bikes exactly 2 years ago and started riding like crazy. Luckily, my DH has been bitten by this passion as well, so we ride together. We rode two century rides (100 miles) the first year. We plan to ride the Horsey Hundred in a couple of weeks on the tandem.
I truely believe that vigorous aerobic exercise is a vital part of treatment for MS and for general well being. People who haven't seen me in years are amazed at my appearance. My MRI has shown very little progression in years and I have had no exacerbations, despite the fact that I was off all meds for almost two years. My fatigue has basically disappeared- except after long bike rides and that is probably just exhaustion.
So, I think Dave has it right. Exercise is the most important thing we can do for ourselves. I do think the DMD are an important part of the picture.
Stella, I couldn't "hear" my diagnosis of MS for nearly a year, so I didn't get on meds as soon as I should have. If the doctor used probably or most likely in our discussion, I just kept thinking, well maybe I don't have MS. I think it is normal to be in shock for a while. I am glad you are seeing the specialist soon. Keep doing your research and make a written list of questions you have for your visit. Everyone is different, but the Gilenya has been the easiest drug to take. I was on Avonex for a year and Copaxone for over 2 years.
The Queen makes private visits to our area every few years. I believe she even has some horses boarded at the Farish farm. We ride bikes by the farm (mansion) where she stays when in the Bluegrass area.
Sorry for the longwinded reply
Pell

[Stella]

This guy makes riding a bike look so easy!

GO Full screen! And Hang on !!

http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/03/do...aolshare_email

[Stella]

Pell,

Forgot to say that the Queen loves her horse racing!

[Stella]

Dave- You are definitely making progress. After my fall 18 months ago, I was only comfortable on an inside bike. It is an excellent way to build fitness and stamina with minimal risk to your body and joints.
Stella, my family (Wardrop) was originally from Leshmahagow Scotland- basically Glasgow.
A tandem is a bicycle built for two. We bought it due to my reaction to Gilenya with the decreased exercise tolerence despite pretty aggressive training. Now I can ride the longer group rides without being dropped or left behind. I have attached a photo-maybe.
Pouring rain today and I am too lazy to go to a spinning class. Even though the Derby is only 80 miles away, I have never gone. I am waiting to the invitation to the posh clubhouse. I am not an infield sort of girl.

Pell

Hi Pell,

I am not familiar with Lesmahagow but I looked it up in the map and it looks like it is just south of Glasgow and Edinburgh just about in between. When you mentioned Tandem, I immediately thought it was some high-tech excercise bike! Thanks for the clarification and photo. I am so sorry to hear that you had a bad reaction to Gileyna. Are you still taking it? I am due to go to the specialist for the first time where I suppose he will assess me and probably figure out what medication I need to go on in a couple of weeks. So part of me is looking forward to it and the other is not. I am still trying to come to terms with the diagnosis as part of me felt like it wasn't a "formal" diagnosis. Also have been trying to find out information through the internet about this disease as was basically sent away from the neurologist without any information and in a state of shock. There is a similar posh race like the Kentucky Derby in England called the Royal Ascot (where the Queen attends) and it lasts about three or four days and everybody dresses up. I've never been personally but have watched it on TV.

All the best,

Stella

[pawpaw]

Progress not perfection

Dave- You are definitely making progress. After my fall 18 months ago, I was only comfortable on an inside bike. It is an excellent way to build fitness and stamina with minimal risk to your body and joints.
Stella, my family (Wardrop) was originally from Leshmahagow Scotland- basically Glasgow.
A tandem is a bicycle built for two. We bought it due to my reaction to Gilenya with the decreased exercise tolerence despite pretty aggressive training. Now I can ride the longer group rides without being dropped or left behind. I have attached a photo-maybe.
Pouring rain today and I am too lazy to go to a spinning class. Even though the Derby is only 80 miles away, I have never gone. I am waiting to the invitation to the posh clubhouse. I am not an infield sort of girl.

Pell

[Stella]

Thanks Stella. Where are you in Scotland? I have relatives in Edinburgh- we visited a few years ago and had a wonderful time.
Larry- Your training program is amazing. Hats off for your consistency and stamina.
We have done a few rides lately, but the storms have stopped most. Tonight we turned around and just managed to out run a big storm. Only 14 miles and 50 minutes on the bikes.
I am hoping to do some intervals tomorrow and then a group ride on the tandem on Wednesday evening. I always get dropped on the Wednesday night ride, so I am really looking forward to doing it on the tandem. Mike wants to do a 63 mile hilly ride on Saturday. The longest we have done is 33 so that will be a stretch- or actually, a real pain in the rear.
I am liking the tandem, but I don't push my fitness as much on it. Hopefully tomorrow I can push hard and get that HR up.

Pell

Hi Pell, great going you all! What is a tandem if I may be so bold to ask? I am in Glasgow, Pell. I was there in Edinburgh not too far back, I had to go to the U.S. Embassy for something. Nice train ride to get there. Edinburgh is such a beautiful city. My favorite is Inverness. Do you go to the Kentucky Derby? That always comes to mind when I hear of Kentucky. I have always been an avid fan of horse racing. You should see the horse racing here - it is out of this world.

Stella

[ActiveMSers]

I'm still chugging at a steady 30-40 minutes on the exercise bike per workout. I feel like I can push it further, but with a couple trips scheduled in May I'm not tempted to push my endurance levels just yet. But all feels great! In June I hope to hit the 50 minute mark. I'm also thinking of renting a trike if they are available in ABQ. Nothing beats the outdoors....

[pawpaw]

Thanks Stella. Where are you in Scotland? I have relatives in Edinburgh- we visited a few years ago and had a wonderful time.
Larry- Your training program is amazing. Hats off for your consistency and stamina.
We have done a few rides lately, but the storms have stopped most. Tonight we turned around and just managed to out run a big storm. Only 14 miles and 50 minutes on the bikes.
I am hoping to do some intervals tomorrow and then a group ride on the tandem on Wednesday evening. I always get dropped on the Wednesday night ride, so I am really looking forward to doing it on the tandem. Mike wants to do a 63 mile hilly ride on Saturday. The longest we have done is 33 so that will be a stretch- or actually, a real pain in the rear.
I am liking the tandem, but I don't push my fitness as much on it. Hopefully tomorrow I can push hard and get that HR up.

Pell

[AMFADVENTURES]

4/29/2011

Got 6 hours in last week all at an easy to very easy level so am fully recovered and ready to start the next training period. This period should include 2 longer climbing rides each week and maybe another shorter high intensity ride. It’s time to pick up the mileage and the climbing if I’m going to get anywhere near the second day century on the MS 150, much less the 120 miles and 10,000 vertical ft. of the “Triple By Pass” two weeks later.

Went out yesterday with my yoga teacher, who by the way, has joined the MS 150 team and will be riding for a friend of hers who was recently dx’ed with MS. It was cold with 20 – 30 mph winds and rainstorms everywhere, don’t know how we missed them all. We were supposed to go out this morning with the team trainers and do some hill and interval work but the ride got cancelled due to cold, wind and the possibility of rain and snow. That’s OK by me!

Pell, sounds like the tandem fits you guys perfectly. Also looks like I’m going to have a hard time keeping up, even on the hills. Guess my last chance will be my incredible ability to ride non-stop for hours and hours (old guy and MS urgency problems permitting).

I get my VO2 test Monday, seems to take them 3 – 4 days to get the report out but will let you know how it goes. My buddy did his last week and scored 163% of normal for his age group. Overall they put him at the level of a category 1 pro biker. Guess that should make me feel better about not being able to keep up with him but somehow it doesn’t.

Marina, are you doing all right out there?
Teresa, is your season over? One of my neighbors is doing the LA marathon, in a wheel chair (a super high tech, very fast wheel chair)!
Sue?
Jenn?
Dave?

Stay safe and remember,

The Human Body is the only machine that improves with use