The Test

Watching the Prudential Figure Skating Championships completely inspired me just watching all those amazing skaters. I heard the story from Ashley Wanger, the Gold Medal Winner and I said to myself  "self"  I would love to do that one day - so after thinking about it and with the support of my family, I've decided to give it a try and test USFS. I would love to go and compete at Adult Sectionals or Adult Nationals one day.

I have a terrible phobia just the thought of "TEST" gives me the "ibby jibbies" I've been putting it off every year I've been skating.  I have tested ISI and right now my level is ISI FS Silver.  To be quite honest I feel now I am ready for USFS- technically, mentally!  Have to go back to the drawing board and get my MIF and Free Skate from beginner to high level this will be a challenge - we are talking major leagues here people.

I should've done this (tested) earlier on when I first started skating, but can't move back the clock.  I have a wonderful support group and will seek guidance from all my skating friends - which I am sure will have tons of questions.  This is the test format:  Adult Pre-Bronze Level III, Bronze, Silver and my goal is to rich GOLD level but we'll see - remember I am not no spring chicken.  Things tend to be a whole lot different at my age, but lets hope for the best.  One test, one level at a time!!   Wish me luck!!

Remember Age Is Just A Number

The Aches and Pains

It seems that at my age skating has its challenges and there's the injuries as well as  the "aches and pains" from it.  Boy!! have I had my share of falls !!  Even though I stretch and also do off ice practice and drink plenty of water still.  My pains very week to week, sometimes I don't get any at all on a good day.  However, where I get the most pain are my ankles, shoulder, thighs and the worst my back. I cant explain it or its just the simple fact that "yes" I am getting old and skating is a tough sport, but I still push myself to the brink of collapse.

For the past couple of years I've been taking acupuncture treatment for a back injury (non-skating related) in 2005 with two bulging disc L4 and L5, very,very painful I might add.   I been through doctors, cortozone shots, steroids etc. nothing helped.  I did find, however, the relief I so needed - without this treatment I could've have never skated.  Acupuncture is the only treatment that works for me.

What I also found out is that inflammation happens all over your body - not just your bones and/or muscles, but other areas of your body too.  I came across a anti-inflammation capsule that really works great and the best thing is that it's all "natural"  I've been taking it for two years now and it works for my pains, even though I take Motrin which helps too but this helps my inflammation heal faster.  Its called IF Relief from Nature's Sunshine.

On a quick note: Don't give up too soon because you feel pain, seek help and relief where you and your body feels comfortable.  Everyone can seek relief without subjecting your body to harsh medication - alternative medicine works just the same.

Live "Today" like tomorrow is your "Last"