Hi all, my name is Tom and I was wondering if you could offer any advice for a fairly interesting challenge I have set myself?
I'll try to be as concise as possible but my current scenario will require a bit of explaining...
I'd been suffering from simple partial seizures of the right side since July 2011 which resulted in severe muscle weakness in my right leg. I was eventually diagnosed with a brain cyst and brain tumour in Jan 2012, and had surgery to remove both the cyst and tumour thereafter. Unfortunately, complications arose and I have had a further five surgeries (and a snazzy titanium plate in my skull), the last of which was on the 28th of August. Obviously my fitness has taken a severe hit so it was recommended by my physio that I get an exercise bike to compliment my stretches and to regain some level of fitness. I can't ride a road bike as the muscles in my right leg (foot especially) make it difficult for me to balance but I can maintain a steady pedalling motion (though my right foot does tend to point at a 25 degree angle to the right!).
At the moment the 100k goal is a long way off; I can cycle 10k before I get exhausted but I am making good progress (a few weeks ago I could barely manage 3k). This goal is not just for myself as I intend to raise money for charity (don't worry I am not canvassing (yet)).
I would be really appreciative if you had any tips for what sort of training regime I should undergo (I am largely limited to my exercise bike) and if there is any essential equipment that you feel would help. I am a fairly determined man and I understand that if I keep cycling then this target is certainly achievable but I want to make sure I am getting the best out of my training.
If anyone has anything to offer in the way of advice I would be incredibly grateful.
Thank you very much,
Tom.