I'm in perhaps a less common position in that as a relatively new runner, I don't have much of a "younger self" performance record for my own comparison. In a way, it is kinda great - every time I reach a new distance, it's a PR! Any progress feels exciting and rewarding! But, on the other hand, according to Oster's data I'm getting close to the age range where performance and ability start to decline... Which feels discouraging because there will be a limit on just how much I can improve before, inevitably, my body won't be able to (and I'm already working a body that lives with rheumatoid arthritis, and has for almost 16 years).
I try to remind myself that every run is different. There are days when a mile is a slog, and the next I'll have a great 5 miles and feel on top of the world. You have to have the hard runs to have the good runs. That's just it!
Oh, I love this, Rebecca! Thanks so much for sharing it. (So many great thoughts in that piece to chew on!) There is something really interesting here that I'd like to explore more -- how do we push forward when we know we're not going to be as fast/strong/etc. as we used to be? Where do we find that motivation? Especially when you're dealing with a condition like yours; there's a lot there that I don't yet have answers for.
Yesterday, I went to a funeral for the father of my best friend from childhood, and it made me think about all of this a lot. (As in, I'd like to work more on strength training so I can make sure I enjoy and feel good in my later years -- not because I'm going to win any races or competitions, but just to stave off decline as long as I can. It's a complex feeling, all of that!)
And yes, every run really is different -- I try not to make too much of any single one, try not to get too down or too up, because my focus is just to be able to keep doing it, right? Love all of this.
Every time you lace up and “get out there” is an accomplishment in itself. Just think of each run as another opportunity to show yourself what you’re made of ... someone who has the spirit and drive to push on and finish what you’ve started. You have my support.
Seinfeld’s quote is powerful…..I’m so glad you posted it. I let go of “what I used to be as a runner”. I realized that I’m growing; older and perhaps a little bit wiser (😄), that I can only do so much running and accept it. As long as I still run and make small goals, it helps keep me balanced. For me, at 61, I’m doing the best for me, at this moment in time, but it won’t stop me thinking about that next ultra or any race. I’m okay, and that’s a good thing. Running/Exercising is part of me. Thanks again for today’s post. 😊
Right back at you, Jill! What you mention is something that's on my mind a lot lately; I'm 52 and have begun to feel my age creep into my running too. I'm not quite as fast as I used to be, and I'm feeling more aches and pains, especially in my feet. I have to listen to my body more than I used to! (I used to be able to bang it up and bounce back quickly; now, not so much!)
So you run ultras? I'd love to hear more about them!
Rest days and sleep - very important. Listen to your body. I’ve been doing that consistently and truly believe it’s helped me in the long run:), plus stretching!!!
Plantar fasciitis halted my running for almost a year, so I hiked and biked. Slowly, I made a come back. WHAT A WAKE UP CALL!!
I love endurance running so when I turned 58, I got a beginners ultra plan online, only using time, but the long run day was miles. Slow build up and I did it: 30.5 (Ghost Train - NH, great beginner ultra), then the following year a 60K in NY (no longer). Past two summers, Anchor Down at Colt State Park in RI in Aug (skipped this yr. Burned out).
Got as far as 44.10 miles. Good enough! 😄 Terrific event, support, volunteers. I’ll sign up in Jan for next summer!!
I am with you Jill, started to be realistic about my limitations. After an entire year with very sporadic running due to a foot issue, then surgery, then recovery, I am currently struggling following this training which was do-able about 2 years ago. Now, at 58, I feel that I will need to stick with a 5k, 10 maximum. But I won't give up until I know for sure.
You’re moving forward no matter the path!!! It’s so hard recovering so the come back is different. I have to accept it will be different and keep a positive attitude (otherwise I go into a dark hole). The brain is powerful so you do what you can.
Thanks for your story. I’m on mile 90 for the month. Thanks for the previous challenges. I have two half marathons, October and November. I found it best if your going to race keep the events close together.
I have to say, I never thought I get my training back. Long Covid really impacted my body and desire. But things have turned around. I’m excited to run and get in the road. It’s my therapy.
Not sure if a full marathon is in my future, but I love the half!
I love trail running. Being out in nature on the trail is so fulfilling.
Today is a tempo day. I think I’ll do it on the tread mill. It is warm here in California, but on the coast early morning it is quite pleasant.
Mine too! I find that if I go more than a couple days without it, my mood is affected, I feel crabby, restless, etc. Mile 90 for August is amazing -- you are a machine, Matt! Should we do more running challenges (especially when we get into the cooler months)?
Honestly, It was your first challenge that got me back out on the road. I got my confidence back and my desire to move past all those excuses. Challenges are fun and “challenging” I’m always up for a challenge.
Running is my therapy ... that says so much. Happy you are , hopefully, past long Covid. I, too, believe the 2nd 13 miles aren’t worth it! Do well in your half marathons ... enjoy the time you’re out there with your fellow athletes.
Great post Terrell...as I'm in my first ever training for a marathon, NYC! I found my speed workout hard this morning (could have been that is was 5:45 am!)...but muscled thru it. I also am SO SO SO much slower than in my first few years of running (I've only been running for 6 years). Not sure why that is, what has happened etc. My coach has me working more on HR training rather then pacing, and honestly, my only goal for the marathon is to cross the finish line hopefully not in a face plant! Good luck with your training Terrell and all. We've got this! (right?!!)
Right back at you, Michelle! (And yes, we've got this!) And wow, 5:45 am is EARLY!!! You have the discipline, it sounds like! Will NYC be your first marathon?
I’d like to try HR training. My dad used to do it that way too. Going out early morn works for me too; It sets up my day. I ran NYC last year. Best of luck!!!
This resonates. I am training for a 10k, and last week ran my last long run--seven miles. And it was HARD. If I hadn't chosen to run a linear path I might have bailed early, but after running 3.5 miles out I had no choice but to run back. That and my daughter was running with me and she would have preferred to sprint back. And yet ten years ago my long runs were typically over ten miles and I used to laugh when I only had 3 miles yet. Only a 5k to go!
Thanks for the inspiration. Seven is hard today, but I can get back to longer runs!
I'm right there with you! I'm running seven this weekend -- the longest I've run in a LONG time. So glad to hear your daughter runs with you! I want to get my son doing that too.
Long run was 7 miles this weekend, it was my first run since having surgery in March that allowed me to believe I am ready for my next half. Much as I wish I could come to Richmond in November, I am running my very favorite half - Emerald Bay in South Lake Tahoe - on 10/15. So the timing wasn’t quite right - especially because my next half is in December.
I really empathize with the impacts of age. At 51, there’s a lot that isn’t quite what it used to be. On the other hand, I’m also finding that age has improved my perspective on a lot, especially the ability to define “success” looks like *to me* instead of what I think it looks like to anyone else. There’s so much freedom in that, which enables much smarter training decisions.
I completely, completely agree, Danielle. It is so interesting how my perspective has changed too; emotions that used to consume me or drive me, often in unhealthy ways, I find have really faded into the background now. You're so right, when you can focus on what works for you individually, rather than some arbitrary standard, time or pace, it's really, really freeing.
Good luck in Tahoe, by the way! I've always wanted to run that race too -- it looks really magical. Which half are you running in December?
Thank you. It is absolutely worth the trip to run any of the full or half races during the “Tahoe Trifecta,” but Emerald Bay is my favorite both because of the incredible views of the lake and mountains but also because it is basically net downhill 😉
December is the Walnut Creek half, which is local to me here in California. It’s close enough to my house that I can just about walk to the start line as a warm-up. And it has a fun holiday theme so I can wear my Santa compression socks. 😂
I tell myself that when I start feeling the urge to quit, I remind myself of 1 James 2-4 and why I named my company Perseverance Performance. Letting your faith in your abilities be tested builds resilience and confidence while also allowing us to thrive in high-performance situations.
I’m there with you. At 58 training for the third time for a half. I feel like I should be able to do it again but as I start doing these long runs in the heat, it can be daunting. I tell myself that it’s ok if I run out of steam and have to walk, the key is to at least finishing the miles. So far, I’ve managed to stay on track. I think by just giving myself an out I am able to push forward - which sounds counterintuitive.
No, I get that! Totally... we have to remember this is all completely optional, and is something we're doing for fun, relaxation and a challenge. We don't have to do it! 😃
i’m doing the Texas Distance Challenge (side note: everyone should sign up for it whether you’re in texas or not) on a team with my siblings, and i’m feeling pretty damn good to average 30/31 miles per month... a 5k feels like a lot to me, but i admire the easy with which folks seem to regard 6+ miles lol
You made me remember first time I trained for a marathon after had only run lots of half-marathons, where training tops usually at 11 miles. I had run 16+ runs for a couple of weeks and found myself thanking God and the universe when my “resting” week indicated I had to run “only” a thirteen miler.
I did my 6 mile run on Sunday and I felt really strong. However, my 5 miler the previous week was a struggle from about mile 2. I was injured last year two days before my first half, and ended up walking most of it, so I’ve got a lot riding on Richmond. The longest I ever ran in trading last year was 10 miles, twice. So I know (hope) I can do it again. But as I’ve learned, nothing is a given. I work for each mile, and marvel at what my body can do. I can’t take one mile for granted.
My Sunday long run this week was cut from 14.6 miles to about 6. I just physically did not have it. If it had been a race I would have pushed through and paid for it for days.
Last night I ran 6.25 at a good pace and felt great afterwards.
Every run is different and we have to be open to that.
Sometimes a quick 5K will turn into 10 miles. And sometimes a Sunday long run turns into a 10K.
Thanks for this post, it’s just what I needed! I did 7 last weekend and it was the most I ran since the marathon in 2021. Felt good but was challenging. I may follow your plan, pick up now at 7. I am schemed for a half in March in Atlanta.... but part of me want to do one sooner!
I had some trouble with my knee a few years ago. Got through it and came back stronger and faster on every distance I raced in 2021. In early, 2022, my injury was back and it took a lot longer to be able to run. Now I'm running well but not pushing the speed anymore. I decided I'd rather keep running for another 30 years and not worry about PR and age group awards. It is hard! It's hard to turn off the competitive me and honor the future me. (that sounds weird, but it makes sense in my head). I just have to remind myself to keep my eyes on the prize, running in my 80's if I'm lucky.
I totally get it! I heard it said once that "discretion is the better part of valor"; I think it comes from Shakespeare, but basically it means that it's better to avoid danger than confront it, if at all possible. And that certainly applies to injuries :)
What an awesome statement Terrell and thank you for sharing. I have found on many occasions that individuals have success and I would wonder why. And success could be defined in so many ways. But regardless of what the pursuit is, I have learned that success doesn’t just happen. We have to create our own success. Just going out and running time after time will likely not give us the success we wanted. sometimes maybe, but not typically. For me it has come down to “what is my plan” and maybe more important, how do I adjust my plan as my efforts are put forth. Again for me, the post is focusing on our running, but how we plan and adjust in running translates, to a degree, maybe to our personal and professional life.
Nothing weird at all ... one has to respect the body ... and no, I will not resort to the Clint Eastwood quote ... “ a man’s got to know his limitations.”
Another relevant read on this topic: Emily Oster recently discussed how to navigate our expectations on ability/performance as we age, especially in comparison to our younger selves. https://open.substack.com/pub/emilyoster/p/competing-with-your-younger-self
I'm in perhaps a less common position in that as a relatively new runner, I don't have much of a "younger self" performance record for my own comparison. In a way, it is kinda great - every time I reach a new distance, it's a PR! Any progress feels exciting and rewarding! But, on the other hand, according to Oster's data I'm getting close to the age range where performance and ability start to decline... Which feels discouraging because there will be a limit on just how much I can improve before, inevitably, my body won't be able to (and I'm already working a body that lives with rheumatoid arthritis, and has for almost 16 years).
I try to remind myself that every run is different. There are days when a mile is a slog, and the next I'll have a great 5 miles and feel on top of the world. You have to have the hard runs to have the good runs. That's just it!
Oh, I love this, Rebecca! Thanks so much for sharing it. (So many great thoughts in that piece to chew on!) There is something really interesting here that I'd like to explore more -- how do we push forward when we know we're not going to be as fast/strong/etc. as we used to be? Where do we find that motivation? Especially when you're dealing with a condition like yours; there's a lot there that I don't yet have answers for.
Yesterday, I went to a funeral for the father of my best friend from childhood, and it made me think about all of this a lot. (As in, I'd like to work more on strength training so I can make sure I enjoy and feel good in my later years -- not because I'm going to win any races or competitions, but just to stave off decline as long as I can. It's a complex feeling, all of that!)
And yes, every run really is different -- I try not to make too much of any single one, try not to get too down or too up, because my focus is just to be able to keep doing it, right? Love all of this.
Every time you lace up and “get out there” is an accomplishment in itself. Just think of each run as another opportunity to show yourself what you’re made of ... someone who has the spirit and drive to push on and finish what you’ve started. You have my support.
Thank you, Dave! That means a lot 💗
“When the miles start testing us”
Seinfeld’s quote is powerful…..I’m so glad you posted it. I let go of “what I used to be as a runner”. I realized that I’m growing; older and perhaps a little bit wiser (😄), that I can only do so much running and accept it. As long as I still run and make small goals, it helps keep me balanced. For me, at 61, I’m doing the best for me, at this moment in time, but it won’t stop me thinking about that next ultra or any race. I’m okay, and that’s a good thing. Running/Exercising is part of me. Thanks again for today’s post. 😊
Right back at you, Jill! What you mention is something that's on my mind a lot lately; I'm 52 and have begun to feel my age creep into my running too. I'm not quite as fast as I used to be, and I'm feeling more aches and pains, especially in my feet. I have to listen to my body more than I used to! (I used to be able to bang it up and bounce back quickly; now, not so much!)
So you run ultras? I'd love to hear more about them!
Rest days and sleep - very important. Listen to your body. I’ve been doing that consistently and truly believe it’s helped me in the long run:), plus stretching!!!
Plantar fasciitis halted my running for almost a year, so I hiked and biked. Slowly, I made a come back. WHAT A WAKE UP CALL!!
I love endurance running so when I turned 58, I got a beginners ultra plan online, only using time, but the long run day was miles. Slow build up and I did it: 30.5 (Ghost Train - NH, great beginner ultra), then the following year a 60K in NY (no longer). Past two summers, Anchor Down at Colt State Park in RI in Aug (skipped this yr. Burned out).
Got as far as 44.10 miles. Good enough! 😄 Terrific event, support, volunteers. I’ll sign up in Jan for next summer!!
I am with you Jill, started to be realistic about my limitations. After an entire year with very sporadic running due to a foot issue, then surgery, then recovery, I am currently struggling following this training which was do-able about 2 years ago. Now, at 58, I feel that I will need to stick with a 5k, 10 maximum. But I won't give up until I know for sure.
You’re moving forward no matter the path!!! It’s so hard recovering so the come back is different. I have to accept it will be different and keep a positive attitude (otherwise I go into a dark hole). The brain is powerful so you do what you can.
“I’m doing the best for me.” That is one great quote!
Thanks for your story. I’m on mile 90 for the month. Thanks for the previous challenges. I have two half marathons, October and November. I found it best if your going to race keep the events close together.
I have to say, I never thought I get my training back. Long Covid really impacted my body and desire. But things have turned around. I’m excited to run and get in the road. It’s my therapy.
Not sure if a full marathon is in my future, but I love the half!
I love trail running. Being out in nature on the trail is so fulfilling.
Today is a tempo day. I think I’ll do it on the tread mill. It is warm here in California, but on the coast early morning it is quite pleasant.
Running is my therapy.
Mine too! I find that if I go more than a couple days without it, my mood is affected, I feel crabby, restless, etc. Mile 90 for August is amazing -- you are a machine, Matt! Should we do more running challenges (especially when we get into the cooler months)?
Honestly, It was your first challenge that got me back out on the road. I got my confidence back and my desire to move past all those excuses. Challenges are fun and “challenging” I’m always up for a challenge.
Running is my therapy ... that says so much. Happy you are , hopefully, past long Covid. I, too, believe the 2nd 13 miles aren’t worth it! Do well in your half marathons ... enjoy the time you’re out there with your fellow athletes.
Great post Terrell...as I'm in my first ever training for a marathon, NYC! I found my speed workout hard this morning (could have been that is was 5:45 am!)...but muscled thru it. I also am SO SO SO much slower than in my first few years of running (I've only been running for 6 years). Not sure why that is, what has happened etc. My coach has me working more on HR training rather then pacing, and honestly, my only goal for the marathon is to cross the finish line hopefully not in a face plant! Good luck with your training Terrell and all. We've got this! (right?!!)
Right back at you, Michelle! (And yes, we've got this!) And wow, 5:45 am is EARLY!!! You have the discipline, it sounds like! Will NYC be your first marathon?
My FIRST at 60...a present to myself...UGH! But so cool if I don't face plant!
I’d like to try HR training. My dad used to do it that way too. Going out early morn works for me too; It sets up my day. I ran NYC last year. Best of luck!!!
Which brand of watch do you use for HR training?
Hi Jill - thanks. I use Garmin Forerunner 245 - really great programming for workouts with Pace, cadence, HR, etc etc.
This resonates. I am training for a 10k, and last week ran my last long run--seven miles. And it was HARD. If I hadn't chosen to run a linear path I might have bailed early, but after running 3.5 miles out I had no choice but to run back. That and my daughter was running with me and she would have preferred to sprint back. And yet ten years ago my long runs were typically over ten miles and I used to laugh when I only had 3 miles yet. Only a 5k to go!
Thanks for the inspiration. Seven is hard today, but I can get back to longer runs!
I'm right there with you! I'm running seven this weekend -- the longest I've run in a LONG time. So glad to hear your daughter runs with you! I want to get my son doing that too.
For the math nerds in the crowd, a half marathon is nothing but a 5K with a 10-mile warm-up
Long run was 7 miles this weekend, it was my first run since having surgery in March that allowed me to believe I am ready for my next half. Much as I wish I could come to Richmond in November, I am running my very favorite half - Emerald Bay in South Lake Tahoe - on 10/15. So the timing wasn’t quite right - especially because my next half is in December.
I really empathize with the impacts of age. At 51, there’s a lot that isn’t quite what it used to be. On the other hand, I’m also finding that age has improved my perspective on a lot, especially the ability to define “success” looks like *to me* instead of what I think it looks like to anyone else. There’s so much freedom in that, which enables much smarter training decisions.
I completely, completely agree, Danielle. It is so interesting how my perspective has changed too; emotions that used to consume me or drive me, often in unhealthy ways, I find have really faded into the background now. You're so right, when you can focus on what works for you individually, rather than some arbitrary standard, time or pace, it's really, really freeing.
Good luck in Tahoe, by the way! I've always wanted to run that race too -- it looks really magical. Which half are you running in December?
Thank you. It is absolutely worth the trip to run any of the full or half races during the “Tahoe Trifecta,” but Emerald Bay is my favorite both because of the incredible views of the lake and mountains but also because it is basically net downhill 😉
December is the Walnut Creek half, which is local to me here in California. It’s close enough to my house that I can just about walk to the start line as a warm-up. And it has a fun holiday theme so I can wear my Santa compression socks. 😂
Oh, that sounds awesome!!
I tell myself that when I start feeling the urge to quit, I remind myself of 1 James 2-4 and why I named my company Perseverance Performance. Letting your faith in your abilities be tested builds resilience and confidence while also allowing us to thrive in high-performance situations.
Very powerful post. Thank you.
ps - Loved that NYT article - read it the other day. It's really good.
I’m there with you. At 58 training for the third time for a half. I feel like I should be able to do it again but as I start doing these long runs in the heat, it can be daunting. I tell myself that it’s ok if I run out of steam and have to walk, the key is to at least finishing the miles. So far, I’ve managed to stay on track. I think by just giving myself an out I am able to push forward - which sounds counterintuitive.
No, I get that! Totally... we have to remember this is all completely optional, and is something we're doing for fun, relaxation and a challenge. We don't have to do it! 😃
i’m doing the Texas Distance Challenge (side note: everyone should sign up for it whether you’re in texas or not) on a team with my siblings, and i’m feeling pretty damn good to average 30/31 miles per month... a 5k feels like a lot to me, but i admire the easy with which folks seem to regard 6+ miles lol
You made me remember first time I trained for a marathon after had only run lots of half-marathons, where training tops usually at 11 miles. I had run 16+ runs for a couple of weeks and found myself thanking God and the universe when my “resting” week indicated I had to run “only” a thirteen miler.
I did my 6 mile run on Sunday and I felt really strong. However, my 5 miler the previous week was a struggle from about mile 2. I was injured last year two days before my first half, and ended up walking most of it, so I’ve got a lot riding on Richmond. The longest I ever ran in trading last year was 10 miles, twice. So I know (hope) I can do it again. But as I’ve learned, nothing is a given. I work for each mile, and marvel at what my body can do. I can’t take one mile for granted.
Definitely! How does the injury feel now?
My Sunday long run this week was cut from 14.6 miles to about 6. I just physically did not have it. If it had been a race I would have pushed through and paid for it for days.
Last night I ran 6.25 at a good pace and felt great afterwards.
Every run is different and we have to be open to that.
Sometimes a quick 5K will turn into 10 miles. And sometimes a Sunday long run turns into a 10K.
Definitely been there, re: what you say about sometimes just not having it. Especially in this heat so many of us have been experiencing!
Thanks for this post, it’s just what I needed! I did 7 last weekend and it was the most I ran since the marathon in 2021. Felt good but was challenging. I may follow your plan, pick up now at 7. I am schemed for a half in March in Atlanta.... but part of me want to do one sooner!
So glad to hear that, Liza! Which months might work for you to squeeze in another half?
Thanks! Later in October works, as does November. I even looked at the Richmond race you're doing.
I’d love to have you join us there!!
And I assume you don't all run together, since there will be so many paces. I am slow!
I'm going to look into it! Where do people stay, is there a hotel right by the start? A marriot, perhance?
I had some trouble with my knee a few years ago. Got through it and came back stronger and faster on every distance I raced in 2021. In early, 2022, my injury was back and it took a lot longer to be able to run. Now I'm running well but not pushing the speed anymore. I decided I'd rather keep running for another 30 years and not worry about PR and age group awards. It is hard! It's hard to turn off the competitive me and honor the future me. (that sounds weird, but it makes sense in my head). I just have to remind myself to keep my eyes on the prize, running in my 80's if I'm lucky.
I totally get it! I heard it said once that "discretion is the better part of valor"; I think it comes from Shakespeare, but basically it means that it's better to avoid danger than confront it, if at all possible. And that certainly applies to injuries :)
What an awesome statement Terrell and thank you for sharing. I have found on many occasions that individuals have success and I would wonder why. And success could be defined in so many ways. But regardless of what the pursuit is, I have learned that success doesn’t just happen. We have to create our own success. Just going out and running time after time will likely not give us the success we wanted. sometimes maybe, but not typically. For me it has come down to “what is my plan” and maybe more important, how do I adjust my plan as my efforts are put forth. Again for me, the post is focusing on our running, but how we plan and adjust in running translates, to a degree, maybe to our personal and professional life.
Thank you so much for sharing it Terrell.
Nothing weird at all ... one has to respect the body ... and no, I will not resort to the Clint Eastwood quote ... “ a man’s got to know his limitations.”