Running, in all its simplicity, has the incredible power to reshape lives, transform bodies and minds, and offers countless positive benefits. Today, I invite you into my world to share the genuine tale of my late-life fitness journey, and how running changed my life.
Could I transition from the sedentary slump of my late 40s, plagued by unfitness, health issues, bad knees, and a troublesome lower back, to embrace the identity of a runner? Maybe even tackle a marathon?
Let’s take this compelling adventure together and uncover the answers, and what this means for you!
Quick Look.
From the schoolyard, where sports day meant surviving more than enjoying, to attempting to stay fit in my early 20s, and eventually succumbing to the pressures of life which resulted in neglecting my health and fitness altogether.
Fast-forward to my late 40s and suddenly realising that I am unfit, unhealthy, and utterly dissatisfied with the way I look and feel, and my well-being is now seriously compromised.
How was I ever going to repair my fitness and health, and was it even possible now?
The memories of those early years of vibrant fitness, had now completely faded into the background amid the demands of life, leaving me unable to even complete a run around the block.
Something had to be done, things were getting worse by the day:
- Rediscovery in Late 40s
- Can I regain any semblance of vitality in my late 40s?
- How can I rediscover health and fitness?
- Was choosing running as my exercise preference the right choice?
- My failed attempt to reclaim the runner within.
- Life-Changing Decision
- Witness a pivotal decision leading to a connection with a vibrant group of runners who may be able to help me on my journey.
- Discovering the power of perseverance and commitment.
- Overcoming adversity and setbacks by focusing on the goal.
- From 12k to Marathon Dreams
- Experience the exhilaration of a 12k race and the dreams of a full marathon.
- To what extent can I challenge this ageing body? Is reclaiming complete health and fitness a realistic goal, and if it is, can the pursuit extend to conquering a marathon?
- Other incredible goals and dreams.
This isn’t just my personal transformation story; it’s an invitation for you to find empowerment in your own journey. Find possibility, hope, and inspiration from my struggles and triumphs, and as we conclude, discover not just an end but a beginning—a starting line for your own health and fitness story.
Amidst practical tips for every runner, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts, and answering your most asked FAQs, this story isn’t just about my footsteps—it’s about exploring the boundaries of possibility, understanding the capabilities of the human body, and emphasising that it’s never too late to seize control of your health and fitness.
Quick Links.
The Early Years: From School To My Early 20’s.
School.
Sports day was compulsory at my school, and was a fearful day for me. As a small kid for my age, traditional sports like football often meant being flattened by the bigger kids, turning the experience into a series of punishing clashes.
The constant hits instilled a deep fear of sports day in me.
In response to these challenges, I gravitated towards athletic sports. Activities like sprints, long jumps, or the cross-country run carried far less risk of the heavy knocks I had come to expect in sports such as football.
I found I thoroughly enjoyed athletic sports, particularly the running.
This became my first experience of running, transforming it from a mere sports-day activity into a source of enjoyment and a sanctuary for me.
Teens And Early 20s.
During my final years in secondary school, running took centre stage on sports days. While I wasn’t a standout in sprints, I found my stride in the cross-country runs, especially with the beautiful trails in the nearby pine plantation and bush area backing our school. Exploring those trails fuelled my growing love of nature and for running; the running bug had begun to bite.
As graduation approached, my focus shifted toward obtaining my driver’s license and hitting the open road, which resulted in leaving running and biking behind. However, the allure of the trails somehow persisted, drawing me back occasionally for solo runs through the pine forest near my home. Running solo introduced a new dynamic, where I had the freedom to decide when, where, and how far I would go.
The solitude of running in the bush, feeling the elements and the sense of freedom, became a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Even unexpected rainstorms in the bush took on a strangely enjoyable quality, a powerful connection with nature. To this day, running in the rain remains an exhilarating and empowering experience.
But, the exuberance of my early 20s and getting my licence quickly put running into the background, and I was running less and less.
Life Gets Busy: No Time For Running.
Life got busy. Blindly following the traditional Aussie life trajectory expected of young people during those times. Buying a car, taking a job, getting married, buying a house, having the kids etc.
Forgetting about running, I was focused on doing the best I could for my family, which meant no time for ‘me’ things.
Most people go through this period in their lives where they are so busy with work and family, they often forget about their own health and fitness. Devoting enough time for regular fitness activities often proves very difficult. And this seems typical of most people during these busy times. There is simply no time for anything apart from family and work.
A consequence of this lifestyle is losing fitness, putting on weight, and gradually losing the vibrant health of those younger days.
And that was me too, my health and fitness were gradually falling apart. Can you identify with this, were/are you like me? You come to realise what is happening, but you don’t have the time, knowledge, or energy to do much about it apart from trying the odd diet now and then.
My Failed Attempt To Get Back Into Running.
Amidst the daily demands of my business, I remember sitting in my work van one day, feeling totally worn out. Run-down, unhealthy, and with low energy, I decided this feeling had to stop, I had to try to break free from this cycle of being unfit and unhealthy. I finally made the decision to do something about it, It was now or never, my health and fitness were only getting worse as time passed.
Hoping to revive the youthful vigor of my running days, I made the time and attempted a modest one-kilometre run around the block in an attempt to kick-start my journey back to fitness. It was only a short distance, but it was a start.
What a disaster this turned out to be.
The aftermath was brutal – my knees were in so much pain I could barely bend them, my lower back ached terribly, and pain gripped me all over.
The stark contrast to my past self, effortlessly bounding through the bush, left me shocked and wondering if it was even possible to reverse this appalling condition. The desire to reclaim that sense of healthy dynamism was powerful, but doubts lingered. Could my body handle it, or had I reached my limits?
Despite the uncertainty, I knew I could not give up, I had to try to fix my health and fitness, my future depended on it.
Why Running: Could Running Get Me Fit Again?
Opting for running as my path back to health and fitness was a natural choice, grounded in vivid recollections of feeling effortlessly light, athletic, slim, vibrant, and brimming with energy.
Those memories were etched in my mind, a testament to the unique and invigorating effects that running can impart. Weight-lifting in the gym, while valuable in its own right, failed to evoke the same sense of energetic vitality in me; my body type and mindset didn’t align with the lifting regimen. Furthermore, I didn’t enjoy the gym atmosphere; I vastly preferred the liberating feeling of being surrounded by the bush and nature.
I innately knew that cardio would be my ticket back to health and fitness.
The allure of running, with its promise of that intoxicating feeling, was undeniable. It seemed like the ideal form of exercise that would help me regain the vibrancy I once possessed. Yet, the reality of being in my late 40s loomed large. Unfit, plagued by bad knees, lower back issues, and severely limited cardio capacity, doubts began to creep in.
However, the choice was clear – running had the potential to lead me to my desired destination, but I knew this journey would be a colossal challenge.
Finding Fitness Again. Was Late-Life Fitness possible?
Running is easy, right? All you need is a pair of running shoes, a little time, and that’s it, just head out the door… not so fast!
Here’s what really happened!
Launching my journey to rediscover fitness, I stumbled right out of the gate with a classic rookie error – neglecting proper footwear. Throwing on an old pair of running shoes, I hit the pavement, and every step reverberated with feelings of awkwardness and discomfort. From my feet and ankles to my calves, knees, hamstrings, glutes, and, most problematically, my lower back, pain became my constant companion. This was going to be a massive uphill battle.
Fortunately, fate intervened, and as I was walking past a sports store shortly thereafter, the sight of vibrant new trainers in the window beckoned me in, and it dawned on me that investing in proper running shoes was the least I could do for my beleaguered body. Fifteen minutes later, I walked out with a pair of new running shoes, precisely fitted to my feet and running gait. The impact was immediate – with enhanced cushioning and a proper fit, the round-the-block run became manageable without the need for a three-day painkiller regimen. While discomfort lingered, it was notably reduced.
Lesson One: For aspiring runners, invest in high-quality, properly fitted running shoes.
My second blunder, a common pitfall for novices, was the classic mistake of trying to do too much too soon. With a modest running routine now under my belt, I attempted to push the boundaries by tackling a longer distance prematurely. The aftermath was a humbling stagger home, feeling defeated and questioning if I’d ever rediscover my running mojo.
Lesson Two: Don’t try to do too much too soon, gradually build up your distance.
After recovering from this self-inflicted setback, I recommitted to my mission. Determined not to succumb to discouragement, I sensed an inner belief that I could conquer this challenge.
Over the subsequent months, my runs incrementally extended, the pain subsided, my knees improved, and my lower back strengthened.
Above all, I felt a profound sense of improved fitness and health. The journey was not without its trials, but the enduring pride of persevering and now reaping the rewards was becoming a powerful motivator.
I was finally on my way!
A Life-Changing Decision.
Fortune smiled upon me when I bumped into a friend, a former gym trainer, who told me about a weekly running group he went to every Thursday night.
Assuring me that they weren’t all Usain Bolt types, he described a diverse group of runners spanning all skill levels, from novices to seasoned athletes. The primary goal of this group of runners, apart from training, was camaraderie and mutual support, with each participant deciding on their own level of effort.
The reassurance that the group embraced runners at every stage of their journey convinced me to give it a shot.
Joining this group turned out to be a transformative decision, ranking among the best in my entire life. What unfolded before me was a community of remarkable individuals, revelling in the joy of their chosen sport. From spirited sprints and conquering hills to tackling long distances and various other enjoyable activities, the experience was nothing short of exhilarating.
Admittedly starting off slow and frequently exhausted, my commitment remained unwavering. As time passed, I observed a remarkable transformation in myself – I became faster, stronger, and fitter. The strength in my knees and lower back improved significantly, nearly devoid of the once-constant pain.
It was clear to me now that running was indeed restoring my fitness and health. My body was responding positively to the training, evolving with every run.
However, what I hadn’t anticipated at that moment was the future impact that running would have on my life. It flourished into a focal point and passion, leading me to places and achievements that seemed unimaginable or impossible just a couple of years earlier.
TIP: Similar to the hesitation some people feel about joining a gym, becoming part of a running group may not appeal to everyone, possibly even triggering fear. People might experience feelings of intimidation, inadequacy, self-consciousness, or concerns about their appearance, among other reasons. Fortunately, there are numerous casual running groups specifically welcoming beginners. Consider inviting a friend to join with you, providing mutual support and making the experience more comfortable with a familiar face. If you’re just starting, leverage our free ‘Couch To 5k‘ plan to kick-start your journey. Once you’ve built a foundation, you’ll feel better about joining a running club.
Connecting With My Inspirational Running Peers.
Becoming a part of this running group marked a period of significant change in my life. Within a few short years, I experienced a divorce, assumed full-time responsibility for my two wonderful kids, sold my business, and finally began prioritising my own well-being.
The inspiration drawn from some of the runners in the running group exceeded mere admiration. From struggling to complete a run around the block without enduring days of pain, I found myself contemplating whether I could achieve the remarkable feats some of these runners were routinely accomplishing.
With each passing week, my running abilities were showing improvement.
Could I reach the level of some of my new running friends? How fast could I become? Was long-distance running a viable goal again? And, perhaps most astonishingly, could I entertain the idea of entering a race, a concept that seemed impossible not so long ago?
As my health and fitness progressed, aligning with my initial goals, an astonishing realisation dawned upon me. The focus of my goals was shifting from seeing myself solely as a runner to acknowledging that there were even greater accomplishments awaiting me, provided I maintained commitment and put in the effort.
The Lure Of A Marathon On My Late-Life Fitness Journey.
The 12k Race And The Dreams Of A Marathon Begin.
The coach of our running group was also the organiser of our small regional city’s annual 12k race, this popular event attracted runners from across Australia. The race was a wonderful mix of competition and fun run. Encouraged to enter, I decided to give it a go.
I remember feeling a little overwhelmed and nervous as I headed to the start line. When the starter’s gun fired and the fast runners all headed off into the distance in front of me, I somehow felt relieved. Now I could just settle into my own comfortable pace and try to make it to the finish line, this would be the longest run of my late-life fitness journey.
Crossing the finish line that day marked a monumental achievement for me, I had managed to complete the race running non-stop, the feeling was euphoric.
The dreams of tackling longer distances and bigger events started to materialise, sparking thoughts of the ultimate challenge – a marathon. Though seeming impossible initially, the idea lingered in my mind.
The Half Marathon.
Inspired by my running group members participating in various events, including the Melbourne Marathon, I took a leap and entered the Run-Melbourne half-marathon, just a year after my first 12k race.
Not only was this to be my first half-marathon, but it would also be my first big-city race, and the first event I had run outside my own region. As you will read later, this became significant as my running journey was to take me places I could never have imagined previously.
Lining up with thousands of other runners, and a few friends from my running club, we set off for what was an exhilarating and fun event. Crossing the finish line that day was a real achievement, and I felt a sense of enormous satisfaction and pride.
Completing the race in 1:59:22, I felt the thrill of accomplishment, everything I was hoping to achieve by returning to running after all these years was now coming to fruition.
The Full Marathon.
Buoyed by the success of the half-marathon, my attention turned towards the daunting challenge of a full marathon.
Doubts loomed over my ability to run a distance of 42 kilometres, especially considering my struggles in the latter stages of the 21k half-marathon. Nevertheless, the goal became fixated in my mind – a challenge I felt compelled to undertake, an exploration of my own boundaries.
In 2012, at the age of 54, I made the commitment and entered the Melbourne Marathon.
Setting a goal of running a marathon, however improbable it seemed at the time, became my focus, and all my training for the next year was targeted on achieving that outcome.
Taking my place at the start line that day marked one of the most significant moments of my life. Surrounded by over 6000 inspiring athletes, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. When the gun fired, a blend of excitement, doubt, and trepidation swept over me. Could I really accomplish this? What was I doing here, was this feat within my reach?
With months of training complete, the preparation done, all I could do now was give it my best shot.
Weaving along the city streets, parks, and the seaside of this beautiful city was an absolute thrill. The crowds were cheering us on and the roadside entertainment was energising.
I felt good at the 21k mark, and was progressing nicely. By the time I reached the 30k point, my body was starting to protest, I was feeling some pain in my lower back and my legs were beginning to feel like they may cramp up. I pushed on.
The 35k marker signified the longest distance I had run in my training, I was now in Personal Best territory. However, I was now hurting all over, and beginning to doubt if my body would allow me to continue.
With only 7k to go, I couldn’t stop now, this was going to be an epic battle of mind over body.
The iconic MCG, Melbourne’s grand stadium and the ultimate finish line, loomed ahead, a mere kilometre away. The pain that had once gripped me now felt like a badge of honour. Amidst the cheering crowds lining the streets leading to the mighty MCG and alongside all the other jubilant runners, I was on a high like nothing else. The pain was yielding to the exhilaration of nearing the marathon’s completion. The thousands of cheering spectators in the stadium were compelling us forward, I was determined to cross that finish line, even if I had to crawl.
Running into that massive arena, past the rapturous crowds in the stadium, past the photographers, and through the finish line, was completely overwhelming. I had done it, from not being able to run around the block, to running a marathon, the achievement felt monumental. Emotions overwhelmed me as I collected my finisher’s medal, realising with enormous pride and satisfaction that I had conquered my goal, and run a full marathon. I finished in 4:17:08.
Retreating to my hotel room, every muscle in my body voiced its protest vehemently. Yet, amid the pain and the elation, thoughts of ‘what’s next?’ were already beginning to enter my mind.
What’s Next? A New Goal Takes Shape.
A new goal that would take over ten years to complete comes into view!
Following that year’s marathon, I stumbled upon the Melbourne Marathon Spartans, an esteemed and highly respected group of running legends who had conquered at least ten Melbourne marathons. I remembered seeing their distinctive running apparel during the marathon. Despite the gruelling physical toll of my first marathon, I was drawn to the allure of becoming a Spartan.
Setting this goal meant that I would be 64 years old when I achieved it. Nevertheless, having tasted the marathon and recognising what an incredible aspiration this new goal would be, I resolved to pursue it.
Overcoming a Stroke and Intensive Care on My Path To My Dream Goal
Fate can be a paradox, offering both misfortune and fortune in a single life-changing event. In 2021, I experienced the unexpected shock of suffering a stroke, despite having returned to a state of excellent health and fitness.
A mere day and a half after receiving a Covid vaccination, I found myself in the grip of a stroke, requiring an urgent air ambulance journey to Melbourne for critical treatment. Undoubtedly, it was unfortunate to be struck by a stroke, but I counted myself fortunate to subsequently not only survive this life-threatening ordeal, but with no lingering ill-effects.
Resuming my running journey felt like an incredible blessing, allowing me to refocus on my Spartan goal once more. You can delve into the full account of my stroke survival story here.
My long-term goal remains intact, despite this major setback.
Fast-forward to 2022, I had run every Melbourne Marathon since my first, except for the 2020 pandemic year event cancellation. At the age of 65, I finally realised this monumental ambition, officially earning the title of a Melbourne Marathon Spartan. I completed the 2022 marathon in 4:01:57
During my tenth event, various issues threatened to force me to drop out, including a relentless cramp in my right leg. Yet, driven by the significance of completing this ten-year goal, I persevered and crossed the finish line. Despite the challenges, I made a resolute decision to continue running the Melbourne Marathon, setting my sights on the next Spartan milestone: becoming a fifteen-year runner.
In 2023, I ran my 11th Melbourne Marathon as an official Spartan, proudly sporting the official Spartan running singlet and race bib. The fact that it took 11 years to reach this milestone only made the victory that much sweeter.
TIP: Embrace the Power of Goal Setting. It’s natural to be hesitant about setting ambitious, long-term goals. At times, it might even appear futile. Yet, based on my own journey, I’ve come to understand that setting smaller, incremental goals can eventually propel you toward astonishing accomplishments. Goal setting possesses the remarkable ability to unlock your potential and transport you to places you may have never imagined possible.
Unforgettable Running Adventures and Event Highlights.
My life now as a dedicated runner has granted me a wealth of privileges, not only the physical and mental rewards of this sport, but also the opportunity to participate in some extraordinary running adventures, both near and far.
While my hometown, Mildura, offers beautiful tracks and trails along the mighty Murray River, my running journey has taken me to some remarkable places, both in Australia and around the world.
Venturing with my running group has been nothing short of remarkable. We’ve conquered formidable challenges like the True Grit and Tough Mudder events in South Australia. Our journeys have also taken us abroad, where we spent two exhilarating weeks exploring and running in Vanuatu. Together, we’ve conquered the scenic, and challenging, 21k trail race in the mountainous Grampians, and competed in various half-marathon and marathon events around Australia. These shared trips are always filled with incredible experiences.
Whilst living in China, I had the incredible opportunity to explore some picturesque parks in my home city of Shenzhen, and running in neighbouring Hong Kong was always a thrill. You can read about my Shenzhen running exploits here. My running adventures have extended even further, adding an extra layer of thrill and experience to my trips to Mexico and the USA. These journeys have allowed me to run through the distinctive landscapes of Mexico City, Cancun, Central Park in New York City, and Waikiki in Hawaii, leaving me with indelible memories.
For runners, the prospect of running holidays is one of the most enticing perks of the sport. My bucket list is filled with countless destinations and events I aspire to explore, and I encourage anyone considering taking up running to discover the world through this exhilarating sport. Travelling to run and experiencing run holidays are just a few of the wonderful rewards this sport has to offer.
How My Story Can Inspire Your Running And Self-Improvement Goals.
My journey from a sedentary lifestyle to becoming a dedicated runner at the age of 54 isn’t just my story; it’s an invitation for you to embark on your own path to self-improvement through running, regardless of your age or fitness level.
Here’s how:
- Never Too Late: Age is no barrier when it comes to running. If you’re hesitant to start later in life, remember that I was in my early 50s when I laced up my running shoes, and at a stage in my life when I was unfit, unhealthy, and unable to run. It’s never too late to take charge of your health and fitness. Before embarking on a running journey, it’s advisable to consult with your doctor, ensuring that there are no underlying physical or health concerns that might impede your ability to engage in physical exercise.
- Overcoming Obstacles: My experiences with setbacks, like suffering a stroke in 2021, show that life can throw curveballs. But it’s our resilience and determination that define us. Use my journey as a reminder that obstacles can be overcome, and they can make you stronger. Patience and perseverance is key, ride out the bumps along the way, but don’t give up.
- Join a Running Community: Consider joining a running group, as I did. It’s a supportive environment where runners of all levels come together, fostering camaraderie and motivation. My journey back to health and fitness showed significant advancement after I joined my running group.
- Explore the World Through Running: Running can be your passport to exploring breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, both near and far. The adventures and memories you create will be invaluable. I always say that the world is best experienced on two feet, running holidays are a great excuse for travelling.
- Physical and Mental Health: Running isn’t just about physical fitness; it’s a powerful tool for mental well-being. The sense of achievement, clarity of mind, and stress relief that come with running can transform your life. I have written two powerful resources for you; ‘How Running Can Change Your Mind‘, and ‘Running Mantras: Positive Affirmations For Mindful Runners‘.
- Enjoy the Journey: Make Running a Pleasure: Avoid becoming overly fixated to the point where running feels like a burdensome chore. Embrace your new running lifestyle with enthusiasm and anticipation. Savour not only the act of running itself and the experiences it brings, but also the enriching benefits it brings to your overall health and fitness. Let running be a source of joy, making your life more vibrant and fulfilling.
Whether you’re a newcomer to running or a seasoned athlete looking for a fresh perspective, my story is a testament to the transformative power of putting one foot in front of the other. It’s your journey, and it’s never too late to start. Lace up those shoes, set your goals, and remember, the path to self-improvement through running is wide open for you to explore.
TIP: Patience is key. Starting your running journey is a significant achievement in itself. Your initial goal should be simply to start running, without the pressure of grand ambitions. As your health, fitness, and endurance improve, gradually set more specific goals. Remember, patience is your greatest ally. Avoid rushing and enjoy the process. Don’t be disheartened by what may seem like slow progress or setbacks in reaching lofty goals. It’s the journey that matters, and each step forward is a victory.
Wrapping It Up.
As I wrap up this post, my primary goal has been to showcase that it’s never too late to embark on a heath and fitness journey, regardless of your age or initial fitness level.
Life often presents us with hurdles that can deter us from prioritising our health and well-being, but it’s crucial to remember that transformation is always within reach. Unless you’re dealing with severe health issues, you have the potential to revitalise your health and fitness through dedication and a practical plan.
The human body possesses an incredible capacity for adaptation. What may appear insurmountable when contemplating taking up running can often become an attainable reality. Your body will evolve and respond positively to your efforts.
Undoubtedly, you’ll encounter obstacles along your running path – injuries, life’s unexpected curveballs, and more. However, the key is to maintain your focus on the ultimate objective.
Now, here’s the most crucial step: Make that decision to start and set a clear goal! Determine what you wish to achieve through your running, whether it’s improving your fitness, as was my initial aim, or taking charge of your health. Break your journey into manageable milestones that lead to your ultimate desired outcome. But above all, take that first step right now.
I’m eager to hear your stories and answer any questions you may have, please reach out in the comments section.
Happy Running,
Steve.
FAQ’s Of Late-Life Running And Fitness.
Is it too late for me to start running if I’m in my 50s or 60s?
It’s never too late to start running, regardless of your age. Many people take up running later in life and experience significant health benefits.
How do I begin if I’ve never run before?
Start with a walk/run program, like our Couch to 5k plan, to gradually build your stamina. Consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new exercise regimen.
Can running help with weight loss, even in my 60s?
Yes, running can aid in weight loss by burning calories and increasing metabolism. However, combine it with a proper diet for best results. Remember, more whole foods, less highly processed foods, and above all, eliminate sugary foods from your diet.
How can I prevent injuries when starting running later in life?
Prioritise proper warm-ups, stretching, and wearing appropriate footwear. Listen to your body, and don’t push too hard too quickly. Consult a coach or physiotherapist if needed. Reach out to us if you have any questions.
Can running improve mental health for older adults?
Yes, running has numerous mental health benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, and boosting cognitive function.
What are some tips for staying motivated to run regularly?
Set achievable goals, vary your routes, vary your routines, and consider joining a running group for social support. Celebrate your progress and reward yourself to stay motivated.
Disclaimer. This article is for information purposes only and is not a recommendation to act on any of its content. It is always recommended you consult with your healthcare practitioner before engaging in any activity that may affect your health.
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