The Shugyo Project

Five runs totalling just under 50km, the first road ride of the season (25km), two swims (5.4km), and seven resistance sessions. A solid block.

I’m very happy with the progress. I feel physically strong, and there’s a sense that things are only going to improve — injury permitting. There’s some tenderness in the Achilles after longer runs, but it settles quickly, so for now it’s something to keep an eye on rather than a concern.

My weight has edged down slightly. I feel lighter, though there’s still around 3kg to lose to get where I want to be.

VO₂ max is currently sitting at 36. I’d like to see that closer to 39 ahead of the climb. Interestingly, my fitness age is 45 — not bad, considering I’ve got nearly a decade on that.

The plan for the next couple of weeks is simple: more of the same, progressing steadily. No big leaps, just consistent work.

Being back training properly in my own gym after it’s been flooded for a couple of months has made a real difference. It’s still a bit damp, but perfectly fine for an hour’s lifting — and having that space back is definitely elevating the training.

Looking ahead to May, I’ll be spending my birthday in Wales with the team I’ll be climbing the Matterhorn with. More on that to come, but it’s something I’m genuinely looking forward to.

On another note, for anyone interested in my PT course — I’ve now completed all the modules. Just two exams and a practical to go for the first stage of the qualification.

I’m doing all of this in support of Aspire. The challenges I’m choosing to take on are just that — chosen. They don’t come close to the reality faced by people living with spinal cord injuries every day.

If you’d like to support the cause, please consider donating via my JustGiving page.

Thanks,
Nick