Training advice for returning cyclist after long illness

rocky_2483
rocky_2483 Posts: 2
Hi there,

I have been cycling on and off since the age of 16 and when at my best some years ago, was competing in regular local TT's and doing well. A couple of minor injuries put me off the bike and when i returned i just decided to ride for fun and fitness up untill June 2011.

It was then at the age of 22 i contracted bacterial meningitis, which spread to the brain causing viral encephalitis, 2 weeks and almost loosing the battle on more than one occasion in the most disgusting hospital on Rhodes Island i was finally flown home still battling the illness, after 2 1/2 weeks i eventually regained the ability to walk but was still recovering. A long story short i eventually returned to reduced hours at work in December 2011. And now 11 1/2 months on after hundereds of various appointments with Doctor's, Gp's and Neuro consultants it appears i am well on the mend, thankfully. Without boring you too much on the possible side affects of both illnesses i have only been left with occasional headache's, which are controlled with daily medication.

I fell well enough and confident enough (also been given the all clear by my GP) to restart my cycling, Although i feel i can eventually regaine my CV and endurence by gradually increasing my mileage. I am looking for some advice on how to approach my training from other perspective's.

Mainly how to rebuild and tone my body, a year off the bike i have lost all muscle mass, and my arms are like spaghetti, as too are my legs, and also my torso is not to my likeing.

Im looking for advice on how to tone up my arms, chest, abs, and increase the muscle in my legs, with out having to go to the gym if possible, or anything i can introduce to my training rides to build muscle, Im sure there are a few wieghts around the house from my brothers old collection, but any other advice or excerises would be great.

Thank you.

Comments

  • Alex_Simmons/RST
    Alex_Simmons/RST Posts: 4,161
    That's a heck of a journey.

    The key will be to gradually increase what you attempt to do, try to maintain a level of fun about it, and stay safe.

    As for the bike, have a think about how and where you can ride that will enable you to achieve those three things, and the cycling fitness will follow you along for the ride.

    As for the other elements of physical improvement, well there are many exercises you can do that don't require any weights - it's about being creative. But one type of regular physical activity that may be worth considering is a reasonably physical style of yoga.
  • sungod
    sungod Posts: 17,348
    hope things go well, you've got youth on your side...

    what you describe about loss of muscle mass etc. reminded me of jonny bellis, in 2009 he had a near-fatal accident, then massive infection, but he's trained back to race as a pro again this season, he's still 23 i think, so similar age

    probably best to see a physio and get a balanced training/nutrition program worked out
    my bike - faster than god's and twice as shiny