I'm Calling It...
After more than four years, 828 consecutive work-days, and 14,327 miles of bicycle commuting, I am calling the game. I have achieved every goal that I set for myself, and made bicycling my "normal" way to get back and forth to work.
Tomorrow, I am riding the Scrambler to work.
I have developed a case of Achilles Tendinitis, in my right leg, which makes it painful to walk. I am doing calf-lifts and toe-stands in an effort to strengthen that area, but the constant pedaling is not letting the leg recover.
So, before the doctor tells me to stop riding, completely, I am going to cut back on the daily commute and see if things improve. Bicycling will remain my "norm", but I am going to give myself the "out", when I need it.
Much like getting the first scratch or door-ding on a new car, the first day of non-biking seems like it will be the hardest. I have enjoyed the unbroken streak of commutes, but I am not defined by it.
So, Friday was the end of that. From now on, I will have some flexibility on the commute. And, I hope to get a few more things done around the house, on the days I don't ride the bike. It seems like I should be a little more lively, on those days.
I need to get Kyle's bike ready to take to him (new battery, new rear tire and brake pads, new speedometer and a stock airbox and filter), and get the truck ready for the trip, as well. That trip is less than a month away, so time is ticking down quite quickly.
I hope I am not disappointing anyone (but I also know that this is not near as big of a deal to anyone else as it is to me).
Thanks for reading.
x
posted by Jon @ 6:26 PM
12 Comments:
I think you are right. It probably means more to you. For most of us, I'll bet your character/reputation is based on your "practice" more than a "consecutive ride streak". Breaking the streak DOES matter to me, but only because I can imagine what is going through your head. Push through it, and heal quickly.
That's pretty much the way it went with Cal, too.
I don't blame you at all. You've accomplished something quite impressive, but riding every day no matter what isn't really necessary. I was very stubborn about that myself for a while, but eventually, after looking at it practically, I have backed off a little bit. Like you say, riding is still my usual option, but I don't feel guilty anymore about using other options when needed.
We've never met. I rarely comment. But believe me, I've been inspired to push myself to ride as "the norm". It's difficult to give our bodies space to heal, but you've made a courageous choice. And you've changed my life for the better.
I'm still not a daily commuter, but I rode through the Michigan winter and continue to commute as much as possible. Thank you. Be well.
Well the important thing is to get your tendon healed. Live to ride another day, or something like that.
Such a long streak is admirable, but sharing your commuting experiences on your blog and with friends and co-workers has, I'm sure, influenced many, many people to consider their commuting styles. Now that is an accomplishment!
Excellent run. You should be proud.
Good call.
yeah, achilles tendonitis can be a bitch. Shawn's been fighting with it since I made him do the 10k running class with me.
Thanks for your support, everyone. I've been off the bike since last Friday, and I feel like I'm going through withdrawal. It seems awfully strange going to and from work without changing clothes, too...
Oh, well.
I have to admit to feeling guilty about enjoying the motorbike ride back and forth. I know that I shouldn't, but change is hard and this is a big one.
The King is dead.
Long live the king!
Dude, you had me at one year.
Shame you had to call time on your streak, but I too know how painful tendonitis is. I cycle commute 40 miles roundtrip 3-4 times a week, I've had all sorts of advice from putting up with the pain, cycling through it, etc., it still hurts. Yet I am loathe to stop cycling, I love it so much.
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