I'm sick and trying to be positive about it. I'm in taper right now for a meet this weekend, but since I've been sick I've been taking it really easy and left practice early (only 15 minutes). So I was wondering if illness could be good. It forces you to take it easy, if you're really sick you'll probably lose a little weight, you stay really hydrated and eat light. Assuming you feel 85-100% by the time the meet roles around it seems like illness can actually be beneficial.
It's like an extra additive to your taper. Any thoughts?
I think I've read in other posts where people have had to take time off due to colds, flu, etc. and have swam faster on the rebound. I know in weightlifting some folks will get pb's after having to rest due to illness. I can speak from experience that if it's something serious like pneumonia then the "tapering through illness" doesn't exactly work. But I think there's enough anecdotal evidence to say it could happen. Good luck.
Lance Armstrong's cancer was the best thing that could have ever happened to him as a cyclist. He went from cycling prospect to almost dead cancer patient to world's best cyclist after top-notch treatment, a lot of rehab, awesome training and unparalleled faith and willpower. The chemo took almost everything out of his body, but he was able to rebuild a stronger and faster man.
Few will argue getting cancer is a good thing, but you asked Kyra!
Take your illness for what it is - get the rest you deserve and then kick some butt! You've done your work already.
:groovy:
