Everything ever written says the forecast for aging athletes is grim: metabolism slows, race times drop and that little layer of fat begins to increase around the middle. Ugh. Not fun, especially when that mind I was talking about still wants to add in classes for Fall Semester.
Leave it to author Joe Friel to make us feel better about life after 50. Friel's book, Fast after 50 is a must-read for any athlete who wants to get inspiration to keep going. There's a lot to live for and train for in the later stages of being an athlete. He says it best "If you decide you have some degree of control over your destiny as a senior athlete, then you are taking the first step toward improved race performances. AGING IS FIRST AND FOREMOST AN ATTITUDE. WHETHER YOU DECIDE YOU'RE OVER THE HILL OR NOT, YOU'RE RIGHT. "
Friel, who is now over 70 years old, advocates acquiring a great aerobic base first, then mixing some high-intensity training with a good dose of quality sleep and balanced nutrition. It's a good recipe for a well rounded athlete, whether you are in your 20's or 80's. He researched this stuff because he wanted to keep going. I know I do too.
So here's to the next 50 years of triathlon training. I'm in! My times may drop, but my belief is that there's more to gain in my triathlon journey than PRs and fast times . I enjoy getting on my bike for an epic ride. Outside is the place for me. I'm not taking this aging thing in a rocking chair. It will have to chase me down on a dirt trail -- 'cause there's a lot out there for me to see!
xoxo.
L
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