Beginning late in life

[Jen68]

I'm 68 and do an hour workout every morning but I would like to add running. Anyone out there who has started running late in life?

[Titch121]

Hi Jen68

Im 58 and started a few months ago. Go for it and post your successes on here. This forum is amazing. The support you get is fabulous.

[Ullyrunner Graduate]

I'm 62 now and started nearly 3 years ago. Sound like you must be pretty fit so no reason why you shouldn't manage fine.

Take it really slow - take extra rest days if you need them and enjoy! It's a great programme.

I know of at least one 70 year old on here, so you are in good company!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Lots of us.. welcome aboard... I am 66... started last year at 65! We are a wonderful, friendly, supportive bunch of folk.. All ages and all sizes!

As the lovely Ullyrunner says.. slow and steady and post as you go... it is the way to success!

[Suebguineapig Graduate]

Just started at 58, inspired by my running family, especially my dad. You can definitely do it, although you need to bear in mind that even though you may be fit you still need to envelop your running legs, so keep to the programme and don't have too high expectations about speed. You will get such a rush as you progress through. Good luck!

[knitandsew]

I've just completed run 2 of week 1 and I'm 59. Daughter and husband run and I was fed up with being left out. I wish you well but people on these forums seem so supportive that if you do get stuck there is always a friendly comment here. I wish you every success!!

[Maria62 Graduate]

You sound like a carbon copy of myself. I, too, was quite fit doing an hour's exercise at least 3-4 times a week. I had never run in my life and didn't think it was possible to start at 68 years of age.

I started Couch to 5K just after Christmas this year with the lovely Laura. I did exactly what she told me to do and didn't try and rush things. I can't say I found it easy, despite being very fit for my age, but I stuck with it and did everything according to the plan and 9 months on I am running one 5K a week, one 10K and a 5K Park Run on a Saturday morning.

I absolutely love running and have heeded all the advice on this wonderful website that has told me that you need a day to recover before running again. I run on my own twice a week but my third run is the Park Run. The Park Run Community Spirit is like this website - just brilliant and always ready with support and advice.

Download the podcast NHS COUCH TO 5K straight away and start as soon as you can. I wish you every success.

[Irish-John Graduate]

56, messed up foot bones, asthma, former pack a day for about forty years habit, way overweight and because of messed up feet literally never tried running except in emergency dashes before of never more that a hundred feet or so.

You can graduate from C25K also, never fear

[Ellymeg Graduate]

Hi,

I am 64 and was 63 3/4 when I started my running adventure this year and it has been a great experience. I go to the gym and do classes, the running has given me a new freedom outside - hurrah!

The running buddies you meet here are the best support system you can find, they are non-judgemental, supportive and encouraging, make you laugh and cry, and occasionally give you a shove in the right direction!

Have fun On your own special journey

[Jen68 Graduate]

Thank you everybody. What great and helpful comments. I'm inspired. I'll let you all know how I'm doing 🏃🏻Jen

[nhs2015 Graduate]

Am 69 + and feeling 50 today (it is cold) but I will feel 30 in a few days as I am going to North Queensland where it is warm and do some snorkelling.

Age does not matter it is how you feel.

I am in the process of getting my motorcycle licence. Did the theory and now need to practice to pass the practical, then I can do burn out in front of all those "caring" people who think I should sit on the couch and knit instead. (Although I do like to sit on the recliner by the window with a good book and a cup of tea......)

So go for it. Enjoy life don't waste it. Running will make you feel good mentally and physically. Go and smell the flowers or the woods....

[Jen68 Graduate]

Well, I took your comments to heart and today I downloaded Laura and off I went on my first run. As I came to the end I experienced that high that long distance runners get. Wow! I didn't expect that😃 I took my little King Charles spaniel with me and she was not impressed. I think she prefers a walk with my husband 🙃

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

Good for you Jen! Well done! Perhaps your little doggy needs some proper running shoes?