Out for Two Weeks with Bodily Mechanical

Lots of riding, not too much writing so far this year. I’m working on changing the second part, but a great new job has meant lots of learning and more time in front of the computer doing work things, rather than blog things. Here is a quick rundown of the season so far.

Fitness is Good, Appendix is Not

So far this year I have felt strong, which I credit 100% to my new bike fit and to work put in late last year on core work from Core Advantage. I still honestly don’t feel like I’m ready to move on to level 2 of 3 of that program, but know that I am way ahead of where I was this time last year.

Now, I’m not going to say that I am in race shape by any means. Quite the opposite, as Bryan and others from a local group ride recently put me in the red - which did led to the season’s only back flare up (so far). I took a few extra steps back just this week after my appendix decided it was done for and needed to come out. No rupture, so things could have been way worse - but that does mean a few weeks off of the bike and some fitness to make up.

Plan for today: rock some work. Actual day: appendectomy + free toast and pudding. pic.twitter.com/pTAbdSSIQ6
— Paul Haskell (@phaskell) June 5, 2014

Riding Around Austin

My new company has an Austin, TX office, so on a recent training trip I decided to explore the city - by bike. The Austin B-Cycle program is super convenient, and for only $8 per 24 hours, you get unlimited rides under 30 minutes. Just enough for commuting too and from the office, and for checking out downtown, the state capital and the University of Texas campus.

 

Schlepping the Kids

The Boys, now 1.5 and 3.5, are VERY into riding in the Burley this year. Kelly’s back has gotten much stronger this year, so she has been able to join us on a few rides. Normal routes include trails, parks and ice cream stops. It does not get much better than that - except on 10% grades when climbing feels like someone is literally pulling your bike out from under you…

More to Come

Once I heal up from surgery, I hope to get back out on the bike in short order. I have some additional reviews in mind, including wheels and a helmet from some familiar faces, as well as some others that I hope you’ll find interesting and useful. Until then, stay safe out there and try to keep your appendices in check.