Pushing Limits

I've found myself trying to push my limits a little more this week. I am constantly on or just beyond what my body/mind can manage with a view to pushing it towards developing and growing. I walk a fine line between feeling utterly exhausted and ill, and feeling drained but knowing that with sleep I'll probably recover enough to function the next day. Anyway...

On Tuesday, I had a really enjoyable evening at table tennis. One of the first team players is recovering from an injury and he took the time to come and do some coaching with the 'social' players. I absolutely loved it. There's nothing like the feeling you get as you concentrate your mind and body to begin to master a stroke. I love the feeling of achievement and empowerment and that sublime freedom that comes when everything clicks into place and the body, mind and apparatus almost effortlessly produce the desired goal. Superb! After so many years of feeling powerless and helpless and trapped physically, it was one of the best feelings in the world.

That was my 6th week at table tennis. Each week I can feel my body has adapted a little more to the demands. Initially, my neck and upper body muscles were very achy and sore afterwards. The forces on my neck as I lent to reach for shots or bent down to pick up the ball etc were pretty significant and it's taking a while for my neck to strengthen up. But, it is getting there and wasn't as bad this week. My right shoulder is also improving gradually. It's a very good thing that the table tennis is an evening event and I can come home and sleep rather than having to endure what would be a day of aches/pains and exhaustion.

On Wednesday, I pushed myself to do 5 more reps on the abdominal exercises in the pool and did more time walking backwards/forwards. In the afternoon, I thought I would try to add something new to my rehab on Wednesdays. I did a 20 minute walk. Mmm....it did feel rather ambitious - I was already tired/sleepy from the morning and I certainly didn't feel like doing anything else! However, I managed it without injury. I was exhausted that evening - barely able to stay awake until bedtime and Thursday was definitely a recovery day (resting in front of the telly). But, I know that I have to keep pushing myself to tolerate more and I think it's the way forward. On Friday, I was tired and short-tempered but coped physically with the early morning pottery class.

Yesterday, I added another 10 minutes to my walk, making it a full hour. Today, I've done the 25 mins on the bike. It's been a tired/sleepy afternoon and I'm looking forward to bed!