treadmill reality check.

[jjs]

I used to run, jog, power walk, hike difficult trails, trail run, etc. I had a treadmill too. Normally I'd do intervals between 4 and 8 miles per hour and the highest incline.

I started using a treadmill again not too long ago. Now I struggle to stay at a constant 1.5 mph with zero incline. 5 minutes in and I'm holding on, dragging my right leg, and reducing the speed to 1.2mph.

No more 14 minute timed two mile run!! Now it takes me 25 minutes to "walk" a half mile.

This is my reality. I still cannot fully comprehend that this is me. Day by day, I usually have a good attitude and do "ok", but the struggle is very real and I'm not sure how much longer I can keep going at my current "speed". I'm thankful for my awesome support system ...... but they still don't really understand ...... which is good in a way I guess!! I mean, I wouldn't wish this on anyone.

Anyway, the treadmill doesn't lie.

Looking forward to meeting my new neuro who is also a functional medical doctor.

[ru4cats]

jjs,

Been there, done that! 18 months before diagnosis, I was in physical therapy for a sprained ankle. Since I was retired, my therapist recommended a local fitness center. I joined and did great for 6 months. Suddenly, I realized I was regressing, not progressing, on the equipment, and couldn't figure out why. 4 MRI's later I was diagnosed with MS. Gravity suddenly was my enemy.

With some assistance, I was able to continue to walk at least a mile daily for a couple years, but then, overnight, that too, ended. My exercise was relegated to a recumbent bike and Pilates reformer. A friend told me about a fitness center with a pool that I could join for little cost. It involved a 110 round trip, but for 4 years it was great! Gravity was no longer a concern, and for an hour in the pool, I felt "normal". Unfortunately, the traveling, undressing, swimming, dressing, and traveling home became a chore.

Then my husband decided to build a new shop, and we put in a Waterwell (therapy pool) in his old shop. Now I walk 10 feet and work out in the pool for 60 minutes, 3 times a week. I have an underwater treadmill, and I feel such joy when I can "walk" in the pool. It was ridiculously expensive, but hey, no kids, and we can't take it with us!

All the best! If you do have MS, you will need to search for new avenues for exercise, but don't give up!

[jjs]

Thanks for mentioning Water Well - never knew stuff like that existed! I requested more info ... I can't afford it now but it's good to know for future reference!

[ru4cats]

I love my Waterwell, but if you ever decide to put one in, contact me (email in profile). I can save you a lot of grief! Also, check eBay and Craigslist. You can find them there used, much cheaper! I've learned a lot from putting mine in.