Remember, my original post was all about goal setting and working toward meeting those goals. The side benefit in this case is an improvement in mental outlook, feeling of accomplishment, feeling like you are fighting back, and taking your mind off the disease. In addition, I am convinced that, at least in my case, my overall health has improved. I was able to bounce back relatively fast after open heart surgery, and all of my doctors said it was because I was in such good physical shape.
I chose an endurance activity, biking. Don Wright and others have chosen running, Nancy walking. The point is to set goals and work toward them. Having multiple myeloma does not mean you have to give up on things that you enjoy. It may mean we have to modify our goals and be realistic, but not abandon them.
Thanks for everyone contributing to this discussion.
Ron
Forums
-
Ron Harvot - Name: Ron Harvot
- Who do you know with myeloma?: Myself
- When were you/they diagnosed?: Feb 2009
- Age at diagnosis: 56
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
Hi KimT,
Thanks for asking how I'm doing! Myeloma-wise, I'm doing well. But 2014 was not a good year for me as far as running goes. On December 8, 2013 I ran in the Frozen Bonsai Half Marathon in Central Park in New York City. That was a little less than 7 months after my SCT. I was well prepared for it, I thought. But at around 8 miles, my right Achilles tendon started hurting. Being stupid and stubborn, I continued running and finished. It turns out that I partially tore the Achilles tendon.
Long story short, I was finally able to gently start running again last week. Just a measly 1 mile every other day. The Achilles tendon is doing fairly well with that so far, but still getting a little swollen. We'll go day by day, but it is wonderful to be back on the road again, finally.
I'm really impressed that you're running as much as you are now, so soon after your SCT. You're doing great!! You said you're training for a marathon - do you have a specific one in mind at this point?
Keep on going!
Mike
Thanks for asking how I'm doing! Myeloma-wise, I'm doing well. But 2014 was not a good year for me as far as running goes. On December 8, 2013 I ran in the Frozen Bonsai Half Marathon in Central Park in New York City. That was a little less than 7 months after my SCT. I was well prepared for it, I thought. But at around 8 miles, my right Achilles tendon started hurting. Being stupid and stubborn, I continued running and finished. It turns out that I partially tore the Achilles tendon.
Long story short, I was finally able to gently start running again last week. Just a measly 1 mile every other day. The Achilles tendon is doing fairly well with that so far, but still getting a little swollen. We'll go day by day, but it is wonderful to be back on the road again, finally.
I'm really impressed that you're running as much as you are now, so soon after your SCT. You're doing great!! You said you're training for a marathon - do you have a specific one in mind at this point?
Keep on going!
Mike
-
mikeb - Name: mikeb
- Who do you know with myeloma?: self
- When were you/they diagnosed?: 2009 (MGUS at that time)
- Age at diagnosis: 55
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
Hi Ron and everyone,
Great post on Sunday, Ron! You're so right about the importance of setting goals and working to meet them. That, in a nutshell, is one big reason why I love running so much. The multiple myeloma makes doing that all the more psychologically important for me.
At the Philadelphia Multiple Myeloma Networking Group meetings, there is always a big sign on the wall that says something like, "Don't let what you can't do stop you from doing what you can do." I think the activities folks have described in this thread are great examples of living that sign!
Mike
Great post on Sunday, Ron! You're so right about the importance of setting goals and working to meet them. That, in a nutshell, is one big reason why I love running so much. The multiple myeloma makes doing that all the more psychologically important for me.
At the Philadelphia Multiple Myeloma Networking Group meetings, there is always a big sign on the wall that says something like, "Don't let what you can't do stop you from doing what you can do." I think the activities folks have described in this thread are great examples of living that sign!
Mike
-
mikeb - Name: mikeb
- Who do you know with myeloma?: self
- When were you/they diagnosed?: 2009 (MGUS at that time)
- Age at diagnosis: 55
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
I'm with Ron and a couple others on how long to train. I put in 2 or 3 1.5 hr rides during the week, and 2-3 hrs on Saturdays, usually shooting for about 80% max heart rate. Sundays, I go for a nice easy 1.5 hr ride with my wife (which is the nicest ride of them all 
).
During the winter, I do intervals for an hour 3 days a week as maintenance, waiting for spring to come (I live in West Michigan). I wouldn't call myself an endurance trainer, but I need the sustained time to feel like I get a decent workout. If I ride less than an hour, I feel like I've hardly worked out.
The other thing I would concur with, though, is taking it a bit easier the day or two after taking dex. My heart rate is significantly elevated after taking the dex, and my doctor and I are both concerned about the effect it could have on heavy exercise, so I decrease my average speed by 2-3 mph.
I do wish I was better at setting goals. About the only goal I have during the summer is to make sure I'm in shape for my hockey season, and during the winter is to make sure I'm ready for biking season.
I'd be interested to hear a few examples of how people set and reach their goals. One problem I have is that I don't have a training partner to keep me honest, and haven't had much luck finding one that's similar in age, speed, endurance.
). During the winter, I do intervals for an hour 3 days a week as maintenance, waiting for spring to come (I live in West Michigan). I wouldn't call myself an endurance trainer, but I need the sustained time to feel like I get a decent workout. If I ride less than an hour, I feel like I've hardly worked out.
The other thing I would concur with, though, is taking it a bit easier the day or two after taking dex. My heart rate is significantly elevated after taking the dex, and my doctor and I are both concerned about the effect it could have on heavy exercise, so I decrease my average speed by 2-3 mph.
I do wish I was better at setting goals. About the only goal I have during the summer is to make sure I'm in shape for my hockey season, and during the winter is to make sure I'm ready for biking season.
I'd be interested to hear a few examples of how people set and reach their goals. One problem I have is that I don't have a training partner to keep me honest, and haven't had much luck finding one that's similar in age, speed, endurance.
-
Kevin J - Name: Kevin J
- Who do you know with myeloma?: myself
- When were you/they diagnosed?: Jan 2011
- Age at diagnosis: 52
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
Ron Harvot wrote:
Good post, Ron.
I used to be a marathon runner but, as age as taken over, I had to give it up 4-5 years ago due to various aches and pains that no longer made running fun for me. I miss the running, but have substituted it with biking (up to 70-80 minute rides 1-3 times a week, weather permitting, but I'm not a bike racer here!), swimming (a mile 1-2 times a week), and weight machines a couple times a week.
My goals are to stay in shape, be as healthy as I can, and try to avoid the workout aches and pains that come with getting older. It really sucks getting injured and not being able to work out! I adjusted my workouts because of my age and not because I have multiple myeloma.
Setting goals can take on many forms when it comes to working out. For some people it may be walking a mile. For others it may be biking 100 miles or running a marathon. But it's good to see others with multiple myeloma staying active and staying positive!
Remember, my original post was all about goal setting and working toward meeting those goals. The side benefit in this case is an improvement in mental outlook, feeling of accomplishment, feeling like you are fighting back, and taking your mind off the disease. In addition, I am convinced that, at least in my case, my overall health has improved. I was able to bounce back relatively fast after open heart surgery, and all of my doctors said it was because I was in such good physical shape.
I chose an endurance activity, biking. Don Wright and others have chosen running, Nancy walking. The point is to set goals and work toward them. Having multiple myeloma does not mean you have to give up on things that you enjoy. It may mean we have to modify our goals and be realistic, but not abandon them."
Good post, Ron.
I used to be a marathon runner but, as age as taken over, I had to give it up 4-5 years ago due to various aches and pains that no longer made running fun for me. I miss the running, but have substituted it with biking (up to 70-80 minute rides 1-3 times a week, weather permitting, but I'm not a bike racer here!), swimming (a mile 1-2 times a week), and weight machines a couple times a week.
My goals are to stay in shape, be as healthy as I can, and try to avoid the workout aches and pains that come with getting older. It really sucks getting injured and not being able to work out! I adjusted my workouts because of my age and not because I have multiple myeloma.
Setting goals can take on many forms when it comes to working out. For some people it may be walking a mile. For others it may be biking 100 miles or running a marathon. But it's good to see others with multiple myeloma staying active and staying positive!
-
DallasGG - Name: Kent
- Who do you know with myeloma?: myself
- When were you/they diagnosed?: 6/20/2013
- Age at diagnosis: 56
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
Kevin,
I would start by looking for a local bike club. Generally, most bike clubs are made up of a wide range of riders who vary by age and ability. For example, my club has a number of group rides on the weekends and a couple on Wednesday night. There is an A level ride for the young, flat bodies, a B level ride for good but not extremely fast riders (me), and a C level ride for beginners and truly recreational riders. Plus, there is the social aspect of being in a club and joining in with people with a like interest.
For goals, you might target several rallies during the year. The bike clubs normally have a list of them. Often they may require some travel and possibly an overnight stay. They often have a variety of distances (100k, 100 miles, and even double centuries). I am sure there are a bunch in Michigan. The goal could be doing a distance that you have not done before or trying to complete it in a certain period of time.
The big rally in Texas is the Hotter n Hell 100, which, as the name implies, is 100 miles in 100 degree heat. It is located in Wichita Falls, Texas, and held in late August. That is one that trying to complete 100 miles in less than 6 hours is a real challenge. (First time I did it, it took me over 8.5 hours.) There is also a group called Randonneurs USA, which are more solo riding, but have set courses you have to cover. Here is a link: http://www.rusa.org/
Then there is the Ultra Racing, which I have tried to do. There are events all over the country. Although this is technically racing, it is in more of a time trial format where you are trying to cover as much mileage as you can in a set period of time. No drafting is permitted. Here is link to the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association and their calendar of events. https://ultracycling.com/sections/calendar/races.php
Ron
I would start by looking for a local bike club. Generally, most bike clubs are made up of a wide range of riders who vary by age and ability. For example, my club has a number of group rides on the weekends and a couple on Wednesday night. There is an A level ride for the young, flat bodies, a B level ride for good but not extremely fast riders (me), and a C level ride for beginners and truly recreational riders. Plus, there is the social aspect of being in a club and joining in with people with a like interest.
For goals, you might target several rallies during the year. The bike clubs normally have a list of them. Often they may require some travel and possibly an overnight stay. They often have a variety of distances (100k, 100 miles, and even double centuries). I am sure there are a bunch in Michigan. The goal could be doing a distance that you have not done before or trying to complete it in a certain period of time.
The big rally in Texas is the Hotter n Hell 100, which, as the name implies, is 100 miles in 100 degree heat. It is located in Wichita Falls, Texas, and held in late August. That is one that trying to complete 100 miles in less than 6 hours is a real challenge. (First time I did it, it took me over 8.5 hours.) There is also a group called Randonneurs USA, which are more solo riding, but have set courses you have to cover. Here is a link: http://www.rusa.org/
Then there is the Ultra Racing, which I have tried to do. There are events all over the country. Although this is technically racing, it is in more of a time trial format where you are trying to cover as much mileage as you can in a set period of time. No drafting is permitted. Here is link to the Ultra Marathon Cycling Association and their calendar of events. https://ultracycling.com/sections/calendar/races.php
Ron
-
Ron Harvot - Name: Ron Harvot
- Who do you know with myeloma?: Myself
- When were you/they diagnosed?: Feb 2009
- Age at diagnosis: 56
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
Kent,
We both live in the Dallas area. Perhaps this spring we can get together for a ride. I live up in the Flower Mound area.
Ron
We both live in the Dallas area. Perhaps this spring we can get together for a ride. I live up in the Flower Mound area.
Ron
-
Ron Harvot - Name: Ron Harvot
- Who do you know with myeloma?: Myself
- When were you/they diagnosed?: Feb 2009
- Age at diagnosis: 56
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
Hi mikeb!
I'm sorry to hear about your Achilles. I have struggled with some injuries aside from my diagnoses for some time now. It has only made me more determined and more focused! I hope the best for you. You encouraged me while I was in the hospital and you are one of the reasons I started running on Day 35.
I was supposed to run the Napa Valley Marathon on March 2 this year, in spite of being on Revlimid, Velcade and dex at the time. I was doing great, but I pulled a hamstring two weeks before. Long story short, the planning for the SCT and another hamstring injury took over my life for a while, as you might guess.
I got a deferral for Napa, meaning if I paid $50, I could run without submitting another $150 for next year. The catch was, I had to pay up by September 30th. And I was just home from the hospital then. But I figured it was only $50. So I did it, not having any clue whether I would be running anywhere near normal. Napa tends to sell out by November.
Well, It has been a long road back, but not nearly as long as I thought. I am almost back to where I was before. I had a decent 5 miler today. Last week, I did a slow 14 miles. I am working with my coach again. And I have every intention of starting that race on 3/1. Goal time is 4:10 to BQ. I want this very badly and I intend to make it happen.
I love exercise and feel that anyone who is motivated in any way is blessed. I am one of those with a bit of competitive spirit, so I am driven to workout for my goals. I have no belief that I will live any longer because I work out. But my life will be so much more full because I am living my passion.
I'm sorry to hear about your Achilles. I have struggled with some injuries aside from my diagnoses for some time now. It has only made me more determined and more focused! I hope the best for you. You encouraged me while I was in the hospital and you are one of the reasons I started running on Day 35.
I was supposed to run the Napa Valley Marathon on March 2 this year, in spite of being on Revlimid, Velcade and dex at the time. I was doing great, but I pulled a hamstring two weeks before. Long story short, the planning for the SCT and another hamstring injury took over my life for a while, as you might guess.
I got a deferral for Napa, meaning if I paid $50, I could run without submitting another $150 for next year. The catch was, I had to pay up by September 30th. And I was just home from the hospital then. But I figured it was only $50. So I did it, not having any clue whether I would be running anywhere near normal. Napa tends to sell out by November.
Well, It has been a long road back, but not nearly as long as I thought. I am almost back to where I was before. I had a decent 5 miler today. Last week, I did a slow 14 miles. I am working with my coach again. And I have every intention of starting that race on 3/1. Goal time is 4:10 to BQ. I want this very badly and I intend to make it happen.
I love exercise and feel that anyone who is motivated in any way is blessed. I am one of those with a bit of competitive spirit, so I am driven to workout for my goals. I have no belief that I will live any longer because I work out. But my life will be so much more full because I am living my passion.
-
KimT - Name: Kim Tank
- Who do you know with myeloma?: Me
- When were you/they diagnosed?: July 2013
- Age at diagnosis: 53
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
Hi KimT,
You are doing AWESOME! I am really impressed with how your running is going, so soon after your SCT.
I have some more questions and comments for you, but I don't want to hijack Ron's Biking thread and turn it into a Running thread. So I'll PM you with that stuff.
Way to go!
Mike
You are doing AWESOME! I am really impressed with how your running is going, so soon after your SCT.
I have some more questions and comments for you, but I don't want to hijack Ron's Biking thread and turn it into a Running thread.
So I'll PM you with that stuff. Way to go!
Mike
-
mikeb - Name: mikeb
- Who do you know with myeloma?: self
- When were you/they diagnosed?: 2009 (MGUS at that time)
- Age at diagnosis: 55
Re: Biking with multiple myeloma
First, let me say that this is my favorite Myeloma Beacon forum thread. I have posted to it several times, and I have found it to be inspiring at various points in my trip down myeloma lane.
The last few most recent posts continue to provide inspiration to me to push on and continue to fight the disease, in part, with a commitment to exercise. I applaud Ron, Mike, Kim, Kevin and the others who have shared their stories.
In that vein, I want to share what I have been able to do this year. I had an auto transplant on January 28 of this year. This prevented me from getting an early start to the cycling season like I normally do. March was pretty cold here in Pennsylvania, so I only was able to get out a couple of times. But despite the late start, my total mileage for the year was 8250 (13,300 km). I didn't know the total until earlier today when I removed the computers from my three bikes and totaled them up.
I must say that I was surprised, since I did not take any time off this summer to put in additional miles. I am superstitious, so I won't set specific goals for next year other than to get out as much as possible.
The last few most recent posts continue to provide inspiration to me to push on and continue to fight the disease, in part, with a commitment to exercise. I applaud Ron, Mike, Kim, Kevin and the others who have shared their stories.
In that vein, I want to share what I have been able to do this year. I had an auto transplant on January 28 of this year. This prevented me from getting an early start to the cycling season like I normally do. March was pretty cold here in Pennsylvania, so I only was able to get out a couple of times. But despite the late start, my total mileage for the year was 8250 (13,300 km). I didn't know the total until earlier today when I removed the computers from my three bikes and totaled them up.
I must say that I was surprised, since I did not take any time off this summer to put in additional miles. I am superstitious, so I won't set specific goals for next year other than to get out as much as possible.
-
goldmine848 - Name: Andrew
- When were you/they diagnosed?: June 2013
- Age at diagnosis: 60