Andrew Usher's blog

We received a new spirometer at the medical surgery, and we all had a go.

A spirometer measures the volume of air in and out of the lungs.

This gadget gives you a lung age score, and despite having a cold when we did the test i got a lung age of 36, which is my actual age. I wont say what our staff received as a reading !!!

I am keen to introduce some gadgets such as peak flow and Heart Rate Monitors into the MMA training to allow everyone to see their development and the science behind physiology and sports.

Caithness is not known for its state of the art gyms or places to workout, which could have been a problem with my plans to rehab if not for some good solid fundamental tools.

My essentials are my Polar RS800cx and me, as bodyweight exercises are really helping with my rehab.The other tools in my toolbox are the TRX suspension trainer (on the door), Lifeline resistance cables, Kettlebell, Medicine Ball and the Gymboss interval trainer. Although the polar has an interval timer on the watch i prefer setting it on free zone to record heart rate and using the Gymboss.

The Heart Rater Monitor training is coming into its own, as three weeks in i am feeling the benefits of better cardio.

All seems to be moving well, and i have even decided to resume training for the Personal Trainer certification. I am going for a REPS Level 3 certification, which will then allow us to offer personal training to the patients of our medical practice. 

Welcome to my blog.
After two years of bad psoriatic arthritis and several consultants and physiotherapists telling me to give up martial arts,or take up a SOFT style, i am back.....
You cant keep an old dog down for too long!
 
The aim of this blog is to detail how i got back to recovery, and to help others as best i can, and to discuss my thoughts and concepts regarding martial arts and wellness.
 
But before we get into all those things i have to thank a few people.
 
First, my wife Natasha, who is not only an awesome GP but the rock that keeps me strong, and never gives up on me, no matter what crazy idea i come up with. Nathan my 4 year old son, who's endless energy kept me on my toes and who i aspire to in many ways. There is something wonderful about watching your child move out into the world.
 
I want to also thank:
 
Anthony of the Dinky Ninjas(MMA club in Glasgow) for his support over the years and for getting me into trouble on many occasions, and for leading me towards MMA in the first place......
 
Rannoch Donald of Simple Strength (http://www.simplestrength.com/) whose friendship kept me motivated through the hard times,and who is a wonderful example of a true martial artist and wellness practitioner.
 
Jay Bell of Phoenix who has for many years he listened to my rants about martial arts, fitness and all things to do with Russian martial arts. Big things ahead for Jay.
A.