Milestone miles
ARE YOU TOO OLD TO RUN? *
As the decades roll by, can your body stand the test of time? We discover what it takes to support yourself from the inside during each life stage
Words: Louise Pyne
Our decade-by-decade guide could see you lacing up your trainers well into your 90s
The human mind is a powerful thing, and if you set your sights on a goal, virtually anything is possible with the right approach.
By breaking the barriers that we often impose on ourselves, we can reach highs we never thought possible. Running is a case in point; if you’re contemplating dusting off your trainers and taking it up later on in life, we’re here to tell you that with some sensible strategies in place, it’s never too late to start.
And if you’re a seasoned runner who is thinking about ditching running because you are worried about the impact that your training may have on your body as you continue to age, we have similarly good news for you. By taking practical precautions and listening to your body, there really is no reason to stop.
*Spoiler: no, never
My running
”I FEEL MUCH BETTER IN MYSELF AND I SLEEP WELL”
London-based Tania Littlehales took up running last year at the age of 54
“I was trying to get fitter and in better shape and wanted to find something low cost that I could fit in around a busy working life and being a mum. I had lost some weight, so wanted to keep that going and always liked the idea of running as I prefer to exercise outside. That said, it does not come naturally to me!
“I knew about Couch to 5K and thought I would give it a try, so one wet May Sunday morning I put some trainers on and went out. I literally ran up and down the same couple of streets near where I live for the duration of the first session and, while it wasn’t easy, I did it.
“I make sure I listen to my body and stop when it hurts, and I take supplements too (Solgar’s Super Cod Liver Oil Complex and the Multi One – see box on page 34) to keep my joints healthy.
“The physical side of running is good and I feel the benefit in day-to-day life. I can run up stairs more quickly and without getting out of breath, I am more active generally, I feel much better in myself and I sleep better. And while I always did enjoy walking, I do it even more now and will actively choose to walk somewhere or try to build in a run where I can. If I am taking my sons to a weekend football match, I might go for a run while they play. I started doing parkrun last autumn, which is great and really motivates you. I am very, very slow but it doesn’t matter and no one cares.
“Mentally, I find running hugely helpful; if I have a bad day or just feel out of sorts I will try to get out to run. And even if I’m feeling fine, I get a buzz from having done it. The hardest thing is always just putting the trainers on and going – then it’s fine.”