Return to Training

After picking up a virus two weeks ago and becoming extremely frustrated at the thought of not being able to train, Paul returned to training on Friday 14th September 2018. However because Paul lost the colour in his face his technical coach Emma Gueterbock stopped the training session after just 20 minutes, Paul admits that this was the right decision as it was clear that although he felt ok it was apparent that he wasn't out of the woods. After more rest over the weekend Paul returned to the rowing machine and gym work completing 1 hour 30 minutes on the rower and felt much better, Paul was excited that he was at last back on the road to full training. On Tuesday the 18th Paul's coach, Mike Gilbert had text to say that it was he who now had the virus so therefore training was suspended as he was too unwell to go on the water and the winds were too strong for Paul to go out alone. Back to the gym on Wednesday and Paul put himself through a tougher session than usual on the ergo (rowing machine) and came out on top, he was very buoyant and looking forward to Thursday's on-water session with Mike but concerned that the weather forecast wasn't looking good. Thursday morning arrived, Paul was given the green light to go on the water with wind speeds at 25 mph the sea was choppy Paul just took it on and completed 1.5 hours on-water training covering over 4 miles at a steady speed of 4.2mph which is extremely positive after a week off, he also learned how to deal with choppy water using a different technique of feathering the oars for longer and allowing them to run on the water to maintain stability. On Friday Paul met with Karen Tyrrell of Lakeside North Harbour to talk about how Lakeside could support his challenge, Paul was very pleased to meet Karen and very grateful to discuss many different options, he may even pop down with Epona (the open ocean scull) and row on the lake, watch this space. Overall it has been a good week, Paul is very excited about the positivity and we look forward to the weeks ahead. 

Best Wishes to you all and thank you for your kind support!