Reason vs. Aesthetics
From 28-02-13
One of the difficulties in having an immune system that likes to attack the ligaments in my arms and legs is trying to stay fit. From day to day, and even from hour to hour, I cannot say what combination of joints is going to be fit for purpose. My ankle can be fine in the morning, I'm limping in the afternoon, and in the evening I'm running up and down the stairs. I've become protective of my feet, hence the big Magnum boots I've gravitated towards via a process of dumping everything that left me grounded the following day - it's evolution Charles, but not as you know it.
Swimming seemed like a good idea, but it is repetitive, and over time my shoulders become so inflamed I can't sleep on my side and I have to take steroids to calm them down. The same goes for the dumbell weights I've used for many years. I've realised I can't do a lot of anything - I have to spread the punishment around as many bits of connective tissue as possible.
Walking is a particular gripe. I've always preferred walk/run/walk as a way of travel. I'd never drive if I could walk. Never in my life have I worn sportswear, or run as an activity. Walking combined with running was an enjoyable way to travel reasonable distances for practical purposes. I miss it.
Cycling would be fine if I didn't live in the sticks. What I needed was a simple way to travel at my usual 5-6mph pace without knocking the hell out of my poor feet. Roller skates. A gas-powered pogo stick. An electric Bath Chair. What I came up with was a giant mini-scooter ... the very definition of a two-wheeled oxymoron.
The problem with a two-wheeled oxymoron is that it is impossible to use it in public without bystanders attempting to conceal a smirk. They try very, very hard ... but I can tell. Rationally, it is excellent - 4kgs, folds up in about 15 secs, shoulder strap to carry it, German made, 200kg limit. I went from Bath Marina to Poultney Bridge and back - about 6 miles - in less than an hour, and I was dawdling and taking photos and whotnot. But the smirking ... I don't know what to do about that.