A newly retired acquaintance recently informed me I should stop racing bicycles and give up racing in triathlons. He said I should become more involved in “age appropriate activities”. Really? What? Are you kidding me? I paused a bit before responding but ultimately regained my composure and told him physical fitness is appropriate for ALL ages not just those under a certain age. Well, I may have lost him with that but I do believe that despite my being 60 years old I have several more years left in the tank and intend to leave this planet exhausted.
The actual lesson learned is that many people wrongly accept the notion fitness has to stop at a certain age…maybe 50s, maybe 60s. Maybe earlier or maybe when they put on some unwanted weight and are unable to start a new fitness program after years of being a couch pilot or cart golfer. Many don’t know but about 15 or more years ago I was a wreck. Out of shape and 55 pounds heavier than today. Yep. I was fully involved with age appropriate activities. New father caring for young children and occasionally playing golf out of a cart with beverages before and after. A heart attack waiting to happen. I started biking with some friends on a 20 year old Schwinn and blue jeans. The rest is history.
I don’t think my activities are anything to be ashamed of but I don’t wear my racing on my sleeve either. I would recommend anyone over 50 to at least START a new physical activity. Walk on the golf course. Take up hiking. Learn how to swim. There are so many non weight bearing activities available for even those with arthritic joints.
So, give it a try. Don’t stop if already in motion. Listen to your inner self not your neighbors. Ask yourself the question, if you didn’t know your age what age would you be??
4 Comments
I didn’t get serious about fitness until 50 and am loving every minute of it! Not planning to stop anytime soon.
This is fabulous! I didn’t start running until I was 37 and I won’t compete in my first triathlon until I’m 40. My husband who has been fit all his life didn’t start running in races until he was 38 and will compete in his first triathlon next month just weeks before his 40th birthday. I guess you can say we got a late start in this game. I’m hoping I’m still finding new fitness goals and competing in new things when I’m in my 70′s and maybe my 80′s.
I always get a kick out of it when you young guys talk about getting old. Keep up the great work Chuck!
I am a huge believer in the phrase “you are only as old as you let yourself feel”… way to go Chuck and Gary!!! Both of you are super inspiring, so keep up all the good work with staying active.