Beginning just before the first of April, Ryan began a new therapy that actually makes his muscles perform work against resistance. Being two months into it, I thought this might be a great time to fill you in on his progress. I even created and provided a graph (below) to visually represent his performance and improvement. This is for his legs only. I haven’t done the arms yet.
Over these past two months, Ryan has used the equipment 56 times (sessions) for his legs and 54 times for his arms. The arms are less because the intravenous (IV) line prevented me from strapping him in without risking pulling it out of the vein. Fortunately, it was only two days until they relocated the IV higher up the arm and he could get back to work.
The graph shows his session averages per week and depicts three measurements that I feel are the most significant (aside from heart rate and oxygen saturation). You can scroll your cursor over the graph or click on it to enlarge. Here are the measurements:
- Miles (in light blue). This is the average equivalent distance he travels (pedals) in a session, as expressed in miles.
- Kcal (in orange). This is 1/1000 of a calorie, meaning it must be multiplied by 1,000 to get the actual number. For example, in Week 1 he averaged 0.51 Kcal, or 510 calories.
- Resistance (in red). This is the torque-force Ryan is pushing against, measured in Nm (Newton-Metre). For those who must know, the best way to explain it is its inverse is power exerted (measured in watts). I had to look this one up myself, since I only had the vaguest recollection from college. Resistance data is important though, since it’s an indicator of muscle growth.

Ryan's Progress (Legs)
I’m quite happy with Ryan’s improvements, but I believe he can progress faster. This is a constant negotiation with the remotely-located therapist who has exclusive control over all the settings. For example, Ryan leveled off at roughly 7.15 miles four weeks ago. To me, it’s time to allow him to pedal faster, not that he will necessarily do it, by removing an artificial ceiling (30 rpm). Also, he is currently spending the entire session at (or near) the maximum resistance limit; arbitrarily set. The crazy thing is, these upper-thresholds prevent him from doing what he’s capable. Sure, he might not be as efficient or strong from one day to the next, but why not let him go hard when he is?
I’m not suggesting that we just crank it up and let him loose. There’s no sense risking injury. My position, all along, is to establish a methodical approach to pushing him more. Give him space to show he can. As he hits certain goals and milestones it should trigger change… or at least a review.
Still, I’m delighted. Not only can I see his progress in the real data, but also by looking at him. His muscles are taunt again. I can feel the density and power when I place my hand on them. He is more slender, defined, and fit. It’s impressive, really.
Here’s some other interesting facts (just for the legs, mind you):
- Ryan has spent a total 2 days, 10 hours on the equipment.
- Ryan has traveled a total of 328 miles.
- Ryan has expended 65,530 calories (I personally think this is over-represented).
Awesome!!!! Good work Ryan, you rock!!
Great progress! It’s wonderfult to see the results of the effort and equipment. Keep it up Ryan!
Go, Ryan, go!! There’s no stopping you now — you got this!
“Worth it’s weight in gold” as the saying goes. Great call Ken in ordering the equipment for Ryan, it is paying off!
Speaking of paying off, I noticed your recurring monthly donations doubled since yesterday’s posting. Way to go Team Diviney! Keep it up. Glad you reminded us of the financial burden Ken. Every so often we need a not so subtle reminder. Thanks!
Good news, Ken! Love to hear how Ryan is improving and moving on to raising the bar. Lots of articles on the internet and other places about the benefits of exercise to improve brain function. I know we all probably feel like it’s not happening fast enough for Ryan, but rest assured, it takes time and just think about how far he’s come already.
Praying throughout the day with much faith that Ryan improves every day. Love
Love the encouraging words, Ken! Ryan is certainly proving to the world what a strong young man he is. Keep up the good work, Ryan!
Wow, Ken, you have done an absolutely phenomenal job helping Ryan to get into such incredible shape!! I hope we can see a picture of our amazing and strong young man soon!!
Wishing you a good day with a big splash of summer sunshine!! Cheers to you, a remarkable Dad!!
Love & hugs, prayers & hope and still believing
Paula
Ken ,From the looks of the chart ,Ryan is doing great! Hoping they raise resistance to see how much more Ryan is capable of. A lot,I bet.It’s truly amazing to see how far Ryan has come (thanks to you and Sue) and know he will continue to improve in all ways. Keep all updates coming and you all have a good day.. Love Gail