Why have I signed up to run 10 kilometres? Let's say I was scared into it. That's right, scared!
Yesterday, I was analysing the results of several patients' exercise tests. In the test, the patient walks on a threadmill whilst attached to an ECG (EKG) monitor. The test starts off at 1.7 mph, increasing in speed slightly every 3 minutes. A walk at is 1.7mph, is a gentle stroll for most. The idea is to gradually bring the treadmill up to 7mph at an incline.
The test results were sobering as well as frightening. A 45 year old man lasted only 4 minutes on the threadmill because he was too tired. Another 50 year old lady had to stop after just 3 minutes, again because of fatigue. The scariest thing is that these results were not particularly unusual. Most of the patients tested were under 65, yet none lasted more than 6 minutes! It wasn't because any of them were disabled, but because they were overweight. Some were very obese.
Too many patients are overweight. So overweight that they struggle to sit themselves out of bed or get up from a chair without help. Frankly, I was frightened & vowed to never let myself go in such a way.
So I've started my training regime & will try to get fit. To be fair, I have a spare tyre to lose myself. June 2009, here I come!
