Physical Health: Aging Gracefully

Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 

2 Corinthians 4:16

It happens to the best of us, if we’re fortunate enough. 
We live, we run, we age.
As we age it can feel like we’re trying to hold pieces together that are being tugged apart, our mileage, our pace, our race schedule, our PR’s but it catches up to us. 
It may be a few seconds one year, a minute the next, an achilles tendonitis here, more recovery time there, but the inevitable happens. 
Our bodies change.  

Even though our bodies change, aging doesn’t have to throw us into some abyss of despair and dejection of running has been’s or want to be’s. 
With some forethought now, at any age, you can set yourself up to run well for all the decades ahead. 
Here are 10 tips for the aging athlete and runner:

1. Build a relationship with your doctor
   • Your medical doctor can run annual exams and perform regular check ups to detect certain cancers and diseases early.
     Don’t miss out on routine visits just because you feel “good”
     
2. See your physio/physical therapist at regular intervals even when you’re not injured
   • A good physio can establish your baseline fitness and flexibility, monitor it, and give you tips and tips to freshen up your workout to prevent any injuries
   • If you build a relationship with a physio when you’re well, when you’re injured chances are they’ll be able to rehab you quicker because they know you and your unique body and movement patterns
     
3. Seek medical attention quickly if you’re developing new pain, especially sharp one sided pain that does not go away after a few days or intensifies during training
   • As we age it is important to catch and address things sooner rather than later.
     It can be the difference between a few weeks or a few months of recovery
     
4. Optimize your nutrition
   • As we age our nutrition needs change too. 
     Learn about age related nutrition and fueling strategies or consult with a sports nutritionist to keep your body fueled and feeling and performing well
     
5. Learn and use recovery tools
   • Hot packs, foam rollers, ice wraps, ice baths, cryotherapy, leg wraps and massagers, foam rollers, and massage guns all exist for a reason
   • Do some research, spend some money, and try different tools that can help minimize recovery time and keep you feeling fresh for your next run
     
6. Start cross-training
   • As runners it’s easy to just run. 
     Cross training creates a well balanced athlete that is less likely to get injured
   • Join a gym, try some fitness classes, get in the pool or on the bike, have fun and you’ll be surprised how fresh your running feels
     
7. Keep growing
   • Just because you are beginning to slow down because of age doesn’t mean you can’t keep growing in your sport
   • Set new goals for your current abilities to keep you engaged and motivated
   • Stay engaged in your sport by reading magazines, books, internet articles, and/or join a running club.
     
8. Give back
   • You’ve been there, done that, and have lots of wisdom to give to others. 
     Now it’s time to give back. 
     Volunteer at races, stay involved in the running community, mentor younger runners, etc..
   • If you continue to contribute to your running community it will foster a deep sense of connection and wellbeing that is important at any age
     
9. Be patient
   • Remember aging is inevitable, but continuing to run is a choice you can keep making.
     There are men and women doing their best running in their 90’s and 100’s. 
     Be that person by taking these tips and keep running one day at a time
     
10. Last but not least don’t lose heart
    • Aging is not easy, especially for runners and athletes who are used to performing. 
      But as Christians we understand that our bodies are just temporary, earthly tents. 
      Despite our best efforts to maintain them they will break down. 
      We can keep a heavenly perspective that inspires hope and maintains our own joy that one day we will have a resurrected body
    • Keeping this perspective will give us the patience to endure to the end of the race and receive the true crown of glory from our Lord.  That’s what this run is really all about, isn’t it?!

Prayer and Reflection:

• How have you noticed your body changing as you age? How has that impacted your physical and spiritual health?
• What steps are you currently taking to maintain your health and fitness? Are there any areas where you need to improve?
• How can you stay motivated to run and live well, despite the inevitable aging process?
• Prayer:
  Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of my body and the ability to be active.
  As I grow older, help me to care for my physical health wisely and patiently.
  Give me the discipline to maintain good habits, the humility to seek help when needed, and the strength to endure changes in my body.
  May I always keep my eyes fixed on You, knowing that this earthly body is temporary, and my true hope is in the eternal life You’ve promised.
  Let me be a witness of Your grace and wisdom, even as I age.
  In Jesus’ name, Amen.