Having been a slowtwitch lurker and occassional poster for a long time, I fully expected to be made fun of, but I do find some of the comments a bit interesting. I have noticed over the years that there is a undercurrent of “haves” vs “have not” that has little to do with the topic being discussed. Since I spent the first 34 years of my life as a definite “have not” I am a little sensitive to these types of comments.
So, for my defensive response: I do make a good living. I do not spend much money on things besides triathlon (rent my house, drive a 2004 Ford Focus, don’t eat out much, etc.)
That said, I spend a lot of money on triathlon. Why? I enjoy it and overall, it is a small portion of my income. The gadgets, gizmos and gear are like a second childhood. If any of it makes my faster, that’s gravy!
When I park in the garage beside the never ending row of $50k vehicles (and not just in the doctors section), I think to myself “This is why we are in the credit crisis.” Therefore, if it bothers you that some people blow $1700 without really thinking about it, grow up, and welcome to America. What amazes me is how people spend tens of thousands of dollars and more on things like cars, houses, watches, clothes, etc AFTER they spent a lot of time thinking it through.
On another note, the reason I threw in there that I am a cardiologist is just to say that I did read the research on this stuff and I do realize that it may be all placebo. I have finished 11 ironmans, while completing my medical training and practicing cardiology with a PR of 9:45. So, I know it is all about hard work, etc, etc.
None of this changes the fact that my dumbass bought an altitude tent (yes, I do think it was stupid!) and so I might as well play around with it some before I try to sell it myself.
Having made my defense, I would ask again if anyone has actually used one of these things, and if so, what was your experience?
Lyndon
