One Hop Backward, Two Steps Forward

Knees - essential for propulsion, yet problematic in motion when inflamed.  Over training with too much weight in my backpack too soon has been the culprit, and it impacted my mobility.  No one my age likes to creak and pop when you were otherwise relatively quiet a few weeks back.

Therefore, one hop backward on my good (right) leg as far as preparedness for our team endeavor is concerned.  

Challenging myself to find a better path to normalcy, I made two adjustments this week following: 

• converted the pack weight to actual items to be carried on the trip instead of Vitamin Water bottles and kettle bells.  It is now cube versus mass.  I am dealing with lighter load overall and more evenly distributed weight than the 60 lbs. I have been walking over 5 miles in the mornings - the first step forward.
• started using an adjustable knee strap on the left knee - the second step forward.

On the same route Wednesday morning, I did the same 5.35 miles 7 minutes faster, had almost no inflammation and less overall creaking in the subsequent hours of the day.  A day later everything feels better.