Challenge Accepted!

The past few weeks have been a rollercoaster. Easter was particularly challenging as I battled with Angina and relentless sinusitis that sapped my energy and left me grappling with fatigue. The chronic cold symptoms persisted, darkening my mood as the Zurich Marathon approached. Training became impossible, and reluctantly, I let the marathon slip away. Instead, my family and I sought refuge in a Spring vacation on the island of Elba. While the getaway featured enjoyable moments like casual bike rides with my kids and delightful Italian cuisine, my energy levels failed to recover.

This ongoing exhaustion prompted me to undergo a comprehensive blood test screening, including checks for Epstein-Barr Virus, an EKG for heart issues, and lung function tests. Surprisingly, all results returned positive, leaving me puzzled over my continued lack of fitness. My doctors and I are now exploring the hypothesis of chronic sinusitis, with treatment involving cortisol—but heavy training is off the table.

As I navigate this uncertain phase, it’s a relief to know that nothing serious underlies my symptoms, yet the path to regaining my fitness feels daunting. With the IM70.3 Rapperswil just three weeks away and the SWISSMAN in six, I’m adjusting my expectations and focusing on recovery.

1. Adjust Training Goals: I’m redefining ‚intensity‘ to mean anything that gets me off the couch! Finally jumping on to the hyped „ZONE 2“- training plans —no sprints, just smiles.
2. Equipment Tweaking: The new bike is coming, and it’s tweaking time! Juggling budget constraints with thorough market research, some adjustments were necessary. More tweaks are on the horizon, so stay tuned for updates!
3. Mindset and Support: Keeping things light-hearted and relying on family and friends to keep the spirits high and the laughs loud.
4. Nutrition and Rest: Emphasizing top-notch fuel for my body and plenty of rest. Think gourmet health food and luxurious sleep-ins!

This journey might have come across a stumble, but I’m gearing up for a comeback…