I did it.. signed up for my first 5km race

[Rain]

Pre dialysis, I was fit and I loved to work out and be outdoors.  When I started dialysis 5 years ago I lost a lot of muscle mass, and became weak.   The first year on dialysis I didn't do any form of exercise, cause I just didn't feel like it. I had a central line that kept getting infected and a rash caused by the tape, so I didn't want to sweat and make things worst.

Once I got my fistula, everything changed.  I signed up to the gym, started gaining muscle mass, very slowly, but slowly.  Winter came, I started skating again and I picked up swimming.

Over the last few years, I took part in kettle bell classes, yoga, walking, running (as much as I can) anything to keep me active.  This year i saw the greatest improvement, since i purchased a bicycle.  I've owned my bike for almost 2 months, and I go biking 5-6 hours a week.  It doesn't feel like working out since it's fun and I feel free.  Since I've taken up biking I've noticed a improved lung capacity, that I haven't had since my pre dialysis days.  I could run short distances and rest and recover quickly. 

I have always wanted to take part in a race and the spring of 2007 i was suppose to do it and it was was when I feel ill and started dialysis so it never happened.  Now 5 years later,  I feel  well enough physically to take part.  I might not run the whole thing.  I plan on jogging part of the race if it's not hot, (the race is in september) and walking most of it.   Even if I walk all of it, it's a huge accomplishment.

This is just a message for all those people trying to get healthy and in shape, you could do anything.  I might take you a lot longer to accomplish but its worth it.  I had a lot of up and downs over the years cause there are some days I just don't want to work out cause I'm tired.   But find something you love and it's easier to stick too.  Learn your limits, for when you push yourself.  There isn't anything wrong with pushing yourself but know how hard you can.

For me I love biking and we have great trails here so I don't have to go far. 

[WishIKnew]

Good for you and thanks for the encouragement!

 

[jbeany]

5K!  Very Impressive! 

Thanks for the reminder and encouragement.  One of my goals after transplant was to start running, and work my way up to half-marathon.  My complications made that an unrealistic goal for a very long time.  I'm hoping to start working at it again soon.  The house remodeling, done mostly by myself because I had no choice, has proven to my that my abdominal muscles are finally starting to recover.  I haven't been back on my treadmill yet, though.   I'll start there with a brisk walk again!