So, I decided that, this year, I’d commute as much as I can. I work as a freelance photographers assistant so it’s not always an option but I’m going to try. One of my main guys moved out of his studio and now has an office in his house. The commute to the studio was easy, just about four miles, mostly downhill. Now, It’s about 8 miles uphill on the way to his place.

Yesterday was my first real ride since winter set in. It was in the upper thirties when I left my place and threatening rain for my return ride. I recently purchased a fender just for this reason.

My ride in started out fine, taking the same way into town as i would to get to the studio. From there, it’s all up hill. literally! After crossing Key Bridge over the Potomac River, I turn on to M St. for about two blocks. From there I make a left on to 33rd St. and head north. I’m breathing heavy but not too heavy for now.

As I get to the top of 33rd, where it meets Wisconsin Avenue, I’m starting to feel it; the cold air stings a bit with every breath and I’m taking huge breaths at this point. I realize that the experimental “couch training” has done little for my endurance, climbing or general health.

I maneuver through traffic and on to Wisc. Ave. north bound, up hill. As I make my way through Glover Park there is a small but welcome leveling off before another climb. My lungs are now chugging along at a rate that is uncomfortable at best, and now my breakfast is trying to make an appearance.

The hill gets a bit steeper as I get closer to the National Cathedral. Cars are now honking their horns and giving me dirty looks as they pass. I’m keeping to the right in the right lane without getting too close to the parked cars.

Surprisingly, my legs don’t burn. In fact, they feel pretty good. I can feel that they are weak but I just thought they would feel worse.

Cappuccino and oatmeal. Just a reminder. I keep it down as I spin along.

At this point, I think that I must be using my lungs to their capacity. I am breathing so hard that it hurts, in and out. I also come to realize that I am breathing as much exhaust as air. This doesn’t help my stomach.

By now, I’m Almost there. At Van Ness St. I turn on to 39th, one more small climb and the last five blocks are down hill.

BTW, I managed to keep my breakfast down.

I’ve learned a few things after this ride.

1. I am out of shape.

2. the couch is no friend of mine.

3. I am out of shape.

4. I love riding my bike!