Pluggers by Rick McKee for August 22, 2024

My mind says, “I can still do that!” My body says, “Try it and die fat boy!”

If I have a shot of tequila and say watch me do a double back flip, stop me ‘cause no I can’t!

Lots of 90-somethings ride bicycles over here in Japan. Hardly ever see a mobility scooter.

Me and gutters.

And he was use to goes uphill both ways back in the days too.

From now on, only stationary exercise bikes — better bored than ‘sored’.

Why one must stay in shape in order to do some things …

You don’t stop riding when you get old, you get old when you stop riding.

Wow, just a couple of days ago I hauled out the old bike, put some air in the tires, and was surprised when they held. Couldn’t resist giving it a go, although the cable to the rear brakes was no longer clipped to the frame and worse yet was froze up. Even though it was a step-through, I had a little surprising difficulty getting into position and getting started. Once I got everything going right, it was, well, as easy as riding a bike again. I do remember my dad having a tumble when he gave it a try when he really was too old, though.

Sadly…this plugger’ mind has waved the white flag. It believes, and PAINFULLY accepts, the body’s physical limits. I’m very depressed, right now…..

I do a lot of things I did when younger, just at a lot slower pace. For bicycling, I use the lower gear more. Thank goodness for 15-speed bikes.

Hold my cane…

You’d like a fancy adult trike.

That’s why I will never get on a bicycle again. I’m afraid of what would happen.

“When your mind makes a promise that your body can’t fill.” -Little Feat

That’s how I felt last weekend after riding rollercoasters, but my mind said lets plan a trip next year and ride even bigger/faster ones!! Gen X never gives!!

Similar to why I gave up pickleball, AKA crippleball, after four friends had bad injuries (broken ankle, collarbone, wrist, etc).

Broken bones in elderly take on average 3-5 years off their lives.

When you break your shin after hit with the kick stand you know it is time.

kinda like the killer kite in Calvin and Hobbes, only different!

that’s why there’s ebike trikes. at my age when I get tired pedaling, I just hit the throttle to take me up the hill to the house. even my bad knee and back can handle it.

The best exercise for the elderly is maintaining a good memory of when “I use to able to….”

And I could too…

…

Tricycle. Paint flames on it. Motorize it. Electric if need be.

Which is why we donated our bikes to a “free bike” event this summer. Simple gym circuits & a brisk walk is our speed now

I’m in my mid50’s and yet my brain still thinks I’m in my early 20s. Just more experience.

Eventually you gotta learn when to quit.