A question of morality

[rapid cycler]

I usually try to schedule physical therapy appointments for very early morning or late evening so as to not impact my work schedule (not because I'm a saint but because I already take time out of work for another weekly appointment and I don't want to push it), but that's not always possible. For instance, this week the holiday threw things off and as a result I'm being squeezed in this afternoon, so I'll be leaving work four hours early today.

My immediate thought is, Yay! I'll have time afterward for a good ride before it gets dark!

The thing is, while cycling didn't cause the condition that requires PT—I have cervical spondylotic myelopathy, which is a fancy-schmancy way of saying that I have spinal arthritis with neurological complications, so I periodically undergo rounds of pelvic traction (or "spine yanking," as I prefer to call it) to get the fluids flowing and such—it certainly exacerbates the symptoms and shortens my periods of remission, prompting an accelerated treatment schedule.

So, is it corrupt to take a half day off work to treat a condition that's at least partially aggravated by cycling, then go cycling afterward? I'll likely go cycling either way; I just want to go ahead and admit to the corruption to assuage my conscience a bit.

[teigyr]

I think the difference is that you try to not take time off but you had to this time and your reason for taking it off isn't to ride.

I've called in sick before and gone out for a walk. Moving around is good for you is how I justify it.

Maybe riding doesn't help your condition but it does help your health. Right?? I think you're fine.

[Tri Girl]

Have to agree with teigyr. It's not like you called in sick and took a walk or anything. Just kidding, Jane.
You had a legitimate reason for taking the afternoon off, and it so happens that you'll have some free time to enjoy a nice ride. It's no different than having extra time after the appt. and spending the time reading, or knitting, or napping. It's your time, and you don't abuse taking off work- so GO RIDE and enjoy it, dadnabit!!!

[mimitabby]

I agree too. What could be better for your health than a healthy bike ride. go to your appt and spend the rest of your day guilt free, knowing that you are preserving your health AND sanity....

[rapid cycler]

I like the way y'all think!

[chickwhorips]

Just think of it as the rest of the day as a partial MHD (mental health day) everyone needs those. I took my *cough* day and did what I wanted. Funny thing is my boss did the same thing that day.

[rapid cycler]

Well, I did go for a spin after PT, and it was one of those rides where I rode strong and felt like I could go forever, which was a nice change after the Tours de Bonk I've met with my last couple of times out. I'm taking this as a sign that a post-PT ride was righteous and good.

[Trek420]

Originally Posted by rapid cycler

I'm taking this as a sign that a post-PT ride was righteous and good.

Can I get an amen?

[snapdragen]

***hands raised to the sky*** AMEN SISTER!

[KnottedYet]

AMEN!!!!

(have you considered a 'bent to make life easier on your neck?)

[rapid cycler]

I'd love to try a 'bent…on a quiet, rural country road.

I'm afraid that in Los Angeles, riding such a low profile would get me smooshed under some Hummer's behemoth tires (and adding to the indignity, my carnage would linger in the roadway until the city summoned a truck for a "large-trash" pickup). Ahh, city life!

[teigyr]

oooh, Los Angeles. Whereabouts? As I recall, I never saw that many 'bents down there.

I do these morality quizzes with myself all the time...ie if I HAVE to call in from work, how DARE I have fun or go outside or do much of anything. The way I see it, it's all in intent.

and minor threadjack, we went to a baseball game with another couple last week. They wanted to drive so they came to our house in a hummer. DH, in seeing my face, said "oh yeah, but it's one of the smaller ones". I just wanted to hide and when we parked in the parking structure? It was painful to sit through the positioning and trying to stay in one parking spot. I'm glad I didn't see anyone I know

[Trek420]

Originally Posted by rapid cycler

I'd love to try a 'bent…on a quiet, rural country road.

I'm afraid that in Los Angeles, riding such a low profile would get me smooshed under some Hummer's behemoth tires (and adding to the indignity, my carnage would linger in the roadway until the city summoned a truck for a "large-trash" pickup). Ahh, city life!

Those new bents with full-sized wheels look sharp and seems you are higher up. Then we add baloons, flags, whirling pinwheels, flares to the seat.