Welcome to the latest Ageing Runner Reading recommendation You can see a list of all my reading recommendations here and sign up for the Ageing Runner newsletter here to keep unto date with the latest research on running as we get older. – Chris
This article is by Richard A Lovett in Runners World. My challenge is for you to read it without jumping to the section written about your age band. I couldn’t help it.
It describes runners who don’t show any sign of ageing and then suddenly reach the age of 38 or 39 and say ‘I get it coach’. It seems a pretty consistent starting point for an annual 0.7% decline per year throughout our 40s, 50s and 60s. VO2 max and muscle mass decrease and the accumulated wear and tear makes us less flexible. Despite that, the article cites Dan Leiberman who says that humans are well adapted to run into their later years.
The article takes us through typical characteristics of runners through each of the masters age bands. Those early in the process typically bemoan their decline and a new series of what they describe a ‘personal worsts’. By the time we reach the middle masters band (45-54) reality is setting in. The importance of flexibility and strength training’s emphasised to counter common issues with calves and hip flexors (I have had those since my 30s!). It also advises running on soft surfaces. That jars with me. I like the reliability of tarmac. It doesn’t feel right.
The 55-59 age range is where the first big drop off in competitors lies. Older runners talk about the value of recovery and remaining in the game. It is about finding a way that works for each individual that allows them to avoid breaking down. Training hard but allowing the time for recovery. It is society that wants us to stop. Keep running. Interesting read.
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