I do NOT have all the answers. The first videos will feature on what I currently do - food, strength, aerobic conditioning. Then I'll visit experts and try to improve. What works for me might not work for you. Full series ▶︎ tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
Great stuff but’ You couldn’t find another expert..’ (?) ‘ The Lazarus Strategy’ by Dr Norman Lazarus. Started endurance cycling and changed his life time in his 60’s 👍🏾
Not sure i agree with the last part of your comment about how fast or far we can go. As someone who is months away from hitting the 60th year, it is critically important to me how fast i ride. I have hit the holy grail of 30kmph on a one hour ride a few months ago and did a multi day 500kms ride last week. Both required the use of my brain in planning, calculating and using my body to execute. So riding fast or riding far is very important i think
Hi from Finland. I am a 74 year old woman, retried since 2013 and attended my 1st ”Vätternrundan” (315 km) in Sweden last summer. I am so proud of myself 💪.
I’m 69 y/o and do Ultra cycling 🚴 best distance solo, not drafting and self sufficient 404 km in 22.7 km/he avg. I’m preparing for a 600 km. 500 km will be done within 24 hrs and the rest I will take my time. I stretch 1 hr/ day avg; Do spinning 2 to 3 X week at high intensity for 1 hr each session; ski at high level 3 to 4 X/w. Speed walk with my dog 5-6 days/w for 80 min avg and weight training x 2/w with weight. And II have recovery time. I’m surrounded being by people my age or older who are hard core like me. And use video like this one to motivate myself..🙏🏻
I love this series and look forward to more episodes. I am 80 years old (female) and started running in 1964. I have run 52 marathons and ultramarathons and now cycle. I am cycling about 70 to 80 miles a week on my fat tire bike on trails. How long can I keep this up? :) I do yoga, stretch and do strength exercises. I expect someday I will wake up with some exoitic disease but so far so good. No prescription drugs for me and I am a vegetarian. How lovely to share your knowledge and let others know we don't have to spend the last years of our lives sitting in a chair. My advice: keep moving and eat healthy foods!
Pat that's fantastic! What I do won't suit everyone, but I'm trying to show - as you have identified - that it's a good range of activities that seems to work best
Now im 64, I'm falling apart like a cheap suit, I get my 5 visits to the local pool and am struggling with arthritis in my feet and hands but f**k it. I'm on my mtb and cyclo cross every week. I'll stop when my body tells me it's had enough. Right now I won't slip on the old age' slippers. Stay positive and keep encouraging each other and thanks for the video channel Simon, you're a great inspiration to us senior road warriors. Bob
"I'll stop when my body tells me it's had enough." Never stop. Your body has never had enough. Due to injuries I can´t bicycle now but I do other type of training 4-6 hours per day, incl. rehab exercises. I combine a home gym with a local gym to get back to bicycling andd other sports. That way I entertain my general fitness and muscular strength.
You should seriously consider reviewing what you eat. My wife works in a local private hospital. She was complaining of aching painful joints which one of the orthopaedic surgeons diagnosed as early onset arthritis. I wasn’t in agreement and suggested she eliminate items from her diet. We soon discovered that sugar was the cause in her case. Eliminated or reduced that. Pain free now.
I took a nasty fall on my road bike in Sept. 2023 (got distracted on a steep climb and went off the road😓) and your comment is right on topic. Keep going, but don't fall!
Absolutely agree. I had to end my long-distance bicycling at 66 after new accidents/injuries . Those new accidents were not from bicycling but my body did not care about what caused the injuries ....An new injury is more difficult to handle the older You are and the more previous injuries You have.
Love reading the comments here. So many active seniors. Very inspirational. I just turned 65 and do a lot of walking, hill walking as you call it, with my Welsh Springer Spaniel and do weights at least 3 times per week. I can't imagine not being able to walk up steep hills like so many people my age.
Well, what an interesting topic, at least for us "older athletes." Life long recreational athlete here. Long distance road cyclist (daily rides 60-80km; weekend rides 100+ km; occasional centuries 100 miles = 160 km). Cross country skier. Ice skater. Ice hockey player. As a 70+ y.o. friend of mine who played goalie said, "I still go down fast. I don't get up quite so fast any more." Decades ago I was a long distance runner. Daily half-marathon. Not running at the moment cause of some wonky problem in my left knee. Doesn't stop me from taking a brisk, daily walk. Three years ago added strength training with kettlebells, heavy clubs and maces. BEST decision I ever made. I am stronger and more fit than ever. I'll turn 65 in eight weeks. Looking forward to the series.
Looking forward to this series Simon. I suffered a bleed on the brain in Feb 22, and was found to have a tumor in there as well 😲☹️ However I'm discharged from the consultants care and the tumor has been removed. I'm back walking 12 miles in the hills and back on the bike. No where near what I was capable of at 64 before the bleed....so at 66 now I intend making the best of the rest of my life. The power of positive thought and a bit of determination is my recipe! Cheers Alistair 👍
Wow, I suffered a brain bleed on March 23 and spent 2 weeks in ICU. I finished a 100 mile bike ride the week end before. Was swimming the next week when it happened. After 1200 meters, I stood up with a horrific headache. Next thing I know, I wake up with lifeguards taking care of me. All the tests did not find anything for which I am thankful. It put a dent in my lifestyle as I had to take it easy. It has taken a while to get back to my normal activities. Played some softball starting in August. In October, I completed a Metric century bike ride and 2 sprint triathlons. Finally running again and plan to compete in more triathlons. By the way, I`m 70. Like you said, positive thoughts and determination.
@@buffalochips1323 proper running is proving difficult (I used to compete in mountain marathons) but as you say positive thoughts and determination will I hope win through. Continue with your recovery, best wishes Alistair 👍
Looking forward to this series. I'm a 60y/o woman and ride with a lot of older men in their mid to late 70's and early 80's and I can honestly say they are still pushing it and looking and feeling great! I'm also aware that we are probably that 1% of the population that actually do this sort of thing into our later years. Most of us in our cycling club ride at least 3 to 4 times a week - 80 to 100km each time with variety of intensity depending on the hills. Most also do some kind of strength training and yoga/mobility work a few times a week.
Same here. I’m 62 and a cyclist most of my life. The group I ride with averages 120-150 miles per week with some ride’s average speed over 20mph. I’m actually riding better now than when I was young. I can ride 4 times a week with no stress about work or other distractions that affect you when you’re working full time.
I’m 70 years young, i was an extremely dedicated weight lifter and cyclist in my 20’s and 30’s I’ve slowed down over the years, when I retired I started hiking every day with my dog but he died 6 months ago, so I sold my old bike and bought a new bike and some weights, I really look forward to it every day now.
Looking forward to more ,I’m 64 and train twice a day 6 days a week,swim bike and run,with strength and conditioning in the mix,I do triathlons and love being fit,was a heavy drinker up to I was 55 then decided to change my life I’ve been sober now for 7 years ,I’ve qualified for team GB twice,just being fit
Sorry to hear about 10 years remaining at age 65 since I’ll be 74 in about 3 weeks. But I don’t believe it. I’ve kept reasonably fit over the years and struggled back from 1 or 2 serious injuries/illnesses but when I got into my late sixties and my body started to decline, I decided it was time to get serious about my health and fitness. Ran my first half marathon on my 70th birthday and my first full marathon a few weeks before my 73rd. Two years ago got introduced to triathlon and expanded my sports repertoire to include cycling and swimming. The fun part is even at my age with hard work I’ve been able to learn these sports and vastly improve my performance especially the endurance part. My current goal is to complete a Ironman 70.3 next year. They say the way to stay young is to not hang out with old people. I’m not sure about that but I do know that every time I stand in the queue waiting for the start of some race, I feel like a young man again. Looking forward to the video series and hope to pick up a few useful tips. Cheers.
That's fantastic! And what great goals. Mine was an Ironman before 60 which I managed but then dropped distances to 70.3. My wife got fed up on not seeing me (always training) so I have moderated distances, but totally agree about having something to aim towards. The best of luck for the 70.3 - reaching the start line is the challenge - finishing is then just fun.
This is a great channel and I’m very pleased to see an active senior citizen preach the benefits of keeping fit into late adulthood.Sadly most people don’t understand the benefit of exercise and reap the negative side affects of sedentariness later in life, like losing the ability to get out of a chair or walk. I I turned 50 this year and have no intention stopping anything, active weightlifter, mountain biker and hiker for 35 yrs. I think one lesson I’ve learned over the years is to learn to listen to my body, rest/recovery and fatigue management are very important. You won’t realise your gains if you’re constantly tearing yourself down. From the States, keep up the good work old boy!
I’m 58 and spent this past year off the bicycle in order to fight Lymphoma. I’m at the tail-end of my treatments and looking forward to this series to discover ways back in cycling health. Thank you in advance for all your time and efforts for creating this content and sharing it with us. It’s truly inspirational.
Wonderful series. I'm 74 with a bad hip from a bike fall and urostomy bag after bladder removal. But I still ride my e bike in weather without snow, walk daily and distance swim in the sea just like you. I plan to resume paddle board surfing as soon as my hip allows me better balance again. Thanks for the inspiration.
Hi to every one.I am 78 healthy,i road bike around 6/7 thousand Km yearly,I run an avarage 40/50 Km monthly,swim when the water here in Italy is warm,at times I go to the pool,swim for about an hour,gym and stretching weekly.Food I eat what a normal Italian has on the table.If I can give some advice,regardless how you feel.Annually have a medical examination,blood work,including coronary tests.Once all the tests are in order,sit back and put your body to work.You should not have any problem reaching 100.
Agree and thanks for the advice. I bike regularly too . The other thing that keeps me healthy and positive is humour. I laugh at myself and what others do and don't get caught up in all the current political events.
Thank you for this series, I love it. I’m 2 weeks shy of my 62nd birthday and 3 weeks past heart valve repair. Went for my first post-surgery run yesterday and ran again today. Tomorrow is pickle ball and yoga, then mountain biking Thursday. It stinks having to build back up after being restricted for 8 weeks, but there’s no other way to get back into it. I will never stop until my body forces me to step down.
I’m not ignoring you David - just spending a couple of days with Donnie Campbell up in Inverness learning what I should be doing! Yes, the series is not aimed at the Couch-to-5k. There’s a lot of that on YT and of course, I’m reporting what I do, not what others should be doing. I appreciate the lack of activity is the big killer, and I think the likes of Joe Wicks do a great job at getting people to start. I’m pitching a level higher, for folk who cycle regularly and are wondering “is this enough?” I think you might appreciate that book and, because you understand the science, his podcast called The Drive. Frankly the latter is WAY over my head 😊😊
Re: "Is that enough?", in terms of improving longevity there's a pretty good globally-agreed standard (for aerobic activity, that is). It might actually tie in well with your section on "time in zones", and would be interesting to see if it does actually "tie in", in terms of being roughly equivalent. Is it OK if I send you an email separately, so I'm not clogging up the comments?
@@alwaysanotheradventure will try to do that later today. I've exchanged emails with you in the past, so have you on file already. ;-) For some reason, I'm not getting alerts for these messages ....
Looking forward to your series. I love it when a fit older guy shares what he has learned. I'm 80 years old and have become skilled in several endurance sports over the years. I think being skilled in several sports is important because it is easy to burnout psychologically. Perhaps that's the reason so many sports are seasonal. I have trained and competed in wrestling, running, XC skiing, swimming, cycling, and, my biggest sport, canoe and kayak racing. At age 65 I started doing triathlons (sprint distance). After six years of that I switched mainly to cycling and XC skiing. Since my upper body has always been my strength, I devised an exercise routine to fight sarcopenia. The routine actually made my muscles bigger and stronger. I pay close attention to the science and that's why I think I have been successful.
This really is fantastic to hear and very encouraging. I wholeheartedly endorse the multi-sport approach. There are quite a few videos in this series already live with a few to come. tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos You'd be great to feature - I'll just nip over from Scotland to visit 😁
I am 79 and still cycling, running, teaching downhill skiing (my 40+ year). I did my first Ironman at 58 my first Ultraman triathlon at 61 and set the World record for The Ultraman Triathlon World Championships in Hawaii at 65 the oldest to ever do it. Ultraman involves a 10k ocean swim a 421k bike and a double marathon 84.4k.I also did it at 68 my fourth Ultraman. I Have won 5 Xterra World Trail 1/2 marathon championships the last one at age 75 then covid came and ended my streak re no races. I have done over 40 marathons & ultras in my 60’s & 70’s and still going. I belong to a Boston marathon group who still run marathons in their 75-79 and 80-84. Three in the group have won Boston outright when they were younger and another guy has done 48 Bostons. I have done a number of sports during my life, obviously have good genes, have been very fortunate not to have badly injured myself with long lasting injuries. 5’7” and natural weight of 132- 138 lbs depending on training and without dieting but eating healthy. I still love all the so called bad stuff but just don’t eat a lot of it. I am conscious of salt intake, bad fats and sugar but have never dieted but always have been active. WE ARE MEANT TO MOVE ! Remember It is never too late. Cheers
I will be 77 in Feb. My motivation is primarily to be strong and do HIIT twice a week for cardiovascular fitness . I devote the other days to strength training . For my upper body I do 250 push-ups in 5 minutes . After resting for 5 minutes I do 45 hammer pull-ups and 15 hammer pull-ups with 10 kilograms and 30 chin-ups My core days emphasize timed prone cobras, timed locusts , dead bugs, timed Superman’s ,parallel points and 10 standing evil wheels For my legs I do clock lunges with 80lbs , timed ski tucks , split squats with 70lbs , step ups with 70 lbs and 100 light squats ( 75lb)
I was really taken with this series. I still go cycling and enjoy it as much as I did when I was a kid, I just do it differently. One thing I have done recently is started a garden. It is good exercise, gets me outside when I'm not riding my bike, and I grow my own food so a balanced diet is definitely easier. So bring on the series!!!
Gardening is great - my wife tells me. I can't get into it but I'm happy to eat the results of her efforts. Quite a lot of the series is already live - YT might inly be showing you the first tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
Very glad this popped up in my feed. 62 year old female, past marathoner, triathlete and climber here. In retirement with no one dependent on me anymore, I’m working at resuming marathoning and just generally being physically up for whatever adventure strikes my fancy. My nod to my age is a much more measured approach to things that will break down my body and more emphasis on those that will build it up with less risk of damage.
Please keep the series going. I'm 69 and weight lift, cycle, and go hiking/walking with a 25 lb backpack (camera gear).I try to do at least one a day. Recently had a health issue that caused the doctors to prohibit me from exercise . Long story short, a stent and some cardiac therapy and I'm finally cleared to exercise. Amazing how far my strength and stamina have reduced from just 2 and a half months of inactivity. It's starting to come back and it looks like your series could have some good info and be very motivational.
Looking forward to this. I'm 52 years old, and was diagnosed with arthritis in my 40's. Medicated and well under control, however. Keen walker, occasional cyclist. Completed the Ridgeway in April, which 90 miles in 4 days, and have done additional hikes along the Grand Union canal from my home in Aylesbury to the Paddington Basin. My better half and I are currently taking on the entirety of the Thames Path, , which will amount to 180 miles once done. Doing this in chunks however due to life commitments. The great outdoors is a wonderful incentive to remain fit and agile, in both mind and body. I love your attitude and look forward to hearing what you have to say.
Simon. Very good stuff, as always. I’m 78 and still riding road, gravel and mountain bikes … I’ll await these episodes with interest although you’re already making the fundamentals clear.
Cycling is a life time activity. A man in his 80’s would come into my shop several days per week, on his road bike! He was on top of everything. That is how old
I'm 61 and run 4-6 Ultra Marathons a year. In September I completed the 220 mile Tor de Geants in the Italian Alps in 127 hours placing me comfortably in the top 25% of the starting field. The truth is that I actually forget how old I am (apart form the loss of my hair!). Use it or lose it. Cardio, diet, sleep and resistance training are all key. And, to be fair, a bit of luck too. Thank you for these videos!
I’m 64, and stopped running about 30 years ago after major knee injuries. The bicycle was like magic to my life….made it possible to hike, and to do calisthenics.
I am 76 yrs old. On my annual wellness checkups my doctor will say to me "my prescription for you and your arthritis is go out and keep riding your bike!" I follow that prescription to the letter by riding 3000+ miles every year. I also am a certified ski instructor and last year skied 48 X's at our local ski area. All this definately helps to keep my knee arthritis in check.
I am 72 years old. 3 years ago I was forced to retire from truck driving across America due to health issues. I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. I needed a total reverse shoulder replacement. I couldn’t walk more than a couple of hundred feet or stand up for more than a couple of minutes due to degenerative disc disease and degenerative facit joint disease in my back. I recently had had a heart attack and had to get a stent placed in my heart. I had severe arthritis in my feet and hands. Three years ago, when I retired I got my shoulder replacement and had to take physical therapy. As part of the therapy I had to work out on a stationary bicycle. It made me remember how much fun I had on a bicycle when I was a child. I subsequently decided I needed to get back into cycling after 60 years. It turned out to be the best decision I had ever made. I now ride at least one hundred miles per week for five months and it is warm enough in Ohio. I am stronger than I have been in decades and I’m having the time of my life. I ride on the road and go mountain biking. I love to mountain bike but here in Ohio, the trails are closed whenever it rains and for several days after.
I’m 63 and have about 60K miles on my 2001 bike. Rode 5K miles the year I turned 56 and rode 2.5K miles each of the last two years while undergoing prostate cancer surgery and radiation treatments. Weightlifting 2-4X a week and hiking when I can. Blessed to be where I’m at physically. BUT, THE NUMBERS AREN’T WHAT MATTERS! What does is KEEP MOVING… plan time for physical activity every day. God bless y’all!
Our bodies have only so much graft and sporting activities in them. A lot depends on your work history and more importantly your injury list. I’m 60 and cycle a minimum of 150 miles a week, I stopped running years ago because I physically can’t. Detached ACL, compression vertebra fracture injury at 19 and the list goes on. I’m 72kg at 6’ retired at 57 and can still put 20 year olds to bed on the Peak District climbs. Diet, lifestyle and proper recovery are key, however we’re all made different. Some of my friends have had knee replacements, hips etc and are younger than me. Great video and keep on keeping on fella, you’re an inspiration to many I’m sure! 👍🏼💜🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼 SUBSCRIBED
You’re absolutely right about working life - a hard physical job can leave your body in a worse situation. And we are all different. The rest of the series so far is here: tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
Perfect timing Sir. I'm 56, and a big fella, 16 st and 6'2". I used to play football at semi pro level, and boxing, as a young man. I've ridden bikes, all disciplines, for 30 years, but on and off. I say, perfect timing, because I've decided, from Saturday just gone, to get back into fitness training. Done 18 miles of walking in the past 3 days, and going to get out on my gravel bike on the nicer days. I'm looking forward to seeing this series, especially the nutrition side, something I've never been able to get right. Thanks for doing this. I'm an avid watcher of your channel & a big fan. 👍
Thanks - but remember I'm no expert. I'm showing what's working for me, and then following it up to learn ways I can improve. Hopefully it'll spark a few ideas to try.
@@alwaysanotheradventure no worries. I hear you. I like to see other people's ways and techniques, then try them and mould them into a way that works for me.
I agree with you. A positive attitude is needed. I'm 73 and feel like 53 and I plan multicast rides every week. I try to the YMCA everyday. I'm going to keep watching.
I'm turning 82 in another month. I'm able to keep biking and touring because of modern medicine. Two new knees, two cataract surgery, two Achilles tendon repairs, carpal tunnel repair have allowed me to keep moving. I have given up cross country skiing and river kayaking. It is just easier to peddle out my drive and take off for the day or a week, with no driving to starting point and pickup. I biked to work for almost 40 years rain, snow, heat, wind and cold. I saw no reason to stop. A few weeks ago I soloed a two day ride with an overnight in a state campground. My old biking mates are now in the Book of Memory. I will be on an all day ride on a Rail to Trail tomorrow and plan on getting in 70 miles.
64 yo runner here. To me the key is an attitude of endless striving. I sum it up as being like water. I deal with an endless series of minor injuries largely due to some chronic issues like an old nail puncture in my foot and some torn ligaments around a knee. To keep going I must always flow around these obstacles, finding different ways to maintain cardio fitness and strength by adapting my regimen to reach the limit of my capabilities on any given day. If my tarsal metatarsal joint is inflamed I will rest it for as long as it takes to heal but as soon as it heals I will start running again. In the meantime I walk, cycle, and do resistance training. Every injury requires and different combination of patience and persistence but overall the key is never to give up on the whole enterprise
It's a great attitude. I find the concept of 'flow' more appealing than 'endless striving' which sounds like hard work (Sisyphus comes to mind 😁) but I completely get what you mean and agree.
Just been introduced by a friend to your channel via the interview you did with the cardiologist, I recognised your voice then eventually remember you from your Look North days as I live in Newcastle. I will be 60 in July, I have competed all my life, in cycling, running and for the last 14 years triathlon, I started as a cyclist joining at local club at 9 years old, competing as a schoolboy until about 18, then switched to running and back to cycling and Tri. I was diagnosed last year with Atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia (AVNRT), after a CT scan it was identified that I had calcification in the 3 main arteries to the heart, which I was shocked due to my background, but maybe that is what caused it? I had an ablation in November which hasn’t worked, so now on a waiting list for a more advanced ablation. Looking forward to the episodes in this series which are very relevant to me, seems like a great channel👌
Brilliant, I'm 62 nearing 63 and have been a cyclist all of my life. That is the question I've been pondering, am I too old now. No, no and thrice no. You've hit a niche here. I look forward to following your videos on this subject.
Stumbled upon your UA-cam channel. Very nice! I"m 64, train daily for triathlon and more (i.e. long cycling events) ... Swim 2x per week, bike 3-4x per week (indoors now - Midwest USA), run 3-4x week, CrossFit 2-3x per week. I follow a whole food plant-based diet - no animal products (although I promise my wife and friends that I won't be socially complicated. I do have an occasional piece of Salmon when out with friends) Next up for me is 70.3 triathlon (65-69 age group). Later this year my wife (6 months younger) and I are planning Rim to Rim to Rim hike in the Grand Canyon. I'm inspired by endurance athletes of all ages... and hope to do the same for others. Thanks for sharing your journey! PS. Subscribed.
@@alwaysanotheradventure Agreed! I've done a couple of 140.6, just take a lot of time to train - if you're trying to actually have a good day out there. I failed to mention above - I work full time in the financial services industry, as well. Time is precious! I look forward to following and keeping in touch. Cheers!
Simon, many years ago I taught at Dylan Thomas’ old school… wonderful line : ‘Do not go gently in to that good night, rage, rage against the dying of the light’
I'm 70 and I am in your shoes and like you I have been adventuring, running , cycling, now kayaking, etc all of my adult life. I will use this series to motivate me to continue what we do to stay alive, vibrant, and relevant! Well done mate!!
Am 70 in December. Still cycling / strength training. Over the years have lots of TdF mountains, end to ends, Cape Argus and vélodyssée towing a trailer. Double heart bypass, cancer survivor and red wine lover. Never give up life is not a rehearsal.
Will look forward to this series with interest. I’ve just turned 65 and enjoy trail running and cycling. I completed my first 50 mile Lake District ultra this year having done various ultras over the last few years. Most running channels seem to focus on the young ‘whippets’ who I accept I will never catch but I enjoy just enjoying the view while running or cycling and for me the challenge is simply to keep on completing the challenges I set myself…. I’m certainly aiming to keep going for a good few years yet! 👍
I am an almost 60yr old female who has always been active. Swimming, cycling and hiking. Have been wanting to get into trail running for the last few years, but was set back by a number of random fractures and osteopaenic scare. So I started doing weight training and I feel like I am getting stronger by the day. Just completed my first unofficial 21.5km trail run. So onwards and upwards I say. I look forward to your series - thank you,!!!
Awesome!! I'm a life long runner, cycler...etc. the last year I have fallen off the wagon, this is the inspiration I think I need. 58 years young and looking to kick some exercise butt!!! Let's do this!!
Let us bear in mind that 65 is still quite young. At 70 I was cycling over a 100 km every Sunday, running 10km three times a week, and sea swimming up to 3km. Plus at cycling I could keep up with far younger cyclist. However at 77 I’m finding a drop off in my abilities. Just recently I have reluctantly stopped running because of knee pain, and could barely walk. I have since recovered but have decided to join a walking/ rambling group as I don’t want to risk not being able to walk pain free. Fortunately I’m still cycling and swimming but am now slower and not going as far. I always felt I’d be able to carry on forever but the closer I get to 80 I find a noticeable dip in my reactions and confidence.
I agree. I am a nurse. I have observed that until about 75, people can maintain active exercising regimens. However, most peoples' abilities start to wane after that. We can always walk! But balance issues start to be a factor plus joint and muscle injuries even in healthy and fit seniors.
I cycle with a lot of folks that are 75 + some start feeling it and slow down quite a bit after that but we have few that are still up there at the front of the group and killing it at 82 and 83!
@@nathaliedasilva555I really started to notice it when I got to my mid-eighties. I persevered until 90 at which point I put a light, simple, friction drive e-assist kit on my road bike. This has smoothed out the hills, and opened out my rides again. 2024 is my 93rd year, but I hope to keep going a bit longer yet, with reasonable mileages courtesy of the kit.
I admire your dedication to keeping fit, as St Cuthbert said, physical exertion cleanses the soul. I am 65 in January also, been a life long amateur TT racing cyclist to a high level, winning inter club open events along the way and cycled hundreds of thousands of miles. Commuted 34 miles per day 5 days a week in all weather for 25 years. I have also won inter school football competitions, was senior school football captain, talent scouted for swimming, run half marathons and did triathlons briefly. The last two, I was always injured with running. Whilst cycling i have never been injured by cycling itself ( falling off is a different matter ) or swimming. My main sport has always been cycling, at it's peak about 300 miles a week. I am still cycling competatively at nearly 65, training right through the winter on zwift. My knees, although i have covered so much distance on the bike are perfect and I have an aerobic threshold pulse rate of 171, which i maintain for an hour each session, every other day now. My boss was just as dedicated to running and his knees are shot and nearly immobile now. Running, although good for your heart and lungs destroys your knees long term. Something you will badly need in your later years for mobility. I am also part of the UK bio bank study, take no prescription medicine, had positive ultra sound and mri scans as well as heart scans etc. The most positive measure for me is the carotid artery ultra sound check i had. It showed a completely empty pipe devoid of any arthoschlerosis at all. Physical activity, hardly ever drinking alcohol, not smoking and staying life long slim has paid off big time for me and it can for you. Remember the more oxygen you consume, the less time you will live because of free radicals being released and destroying your dna over time. Being fitter uses net less oxygen per day, by reducing your resting pulse rate , by improving your body's aerobic efficiency, as well as having as small a physique as possible to fuel with oxygen also. Keep fit, keep healthy it is the most effective medicine a person can take. But as you age, your ability to repair slows down. Cycling has minimal wear and damage because it is none impact and therefore you can do more of it. Running however has high wear, particularly the impact to your knees and hips and needs much more time to repair. The effect of this with continual regular running, is degradation over time, with repeated trauma and not enough repair to return the knee back to their original state, leading to serious knee mobility issues later in life. I have seen it.
This is absolutely fascinating, thank you Steve. I didn;'t know anything about the carotid artery ultrasound but it makes good sense to check. And as for the knees - yes, I have to moderate the wear they undergo.
I just stared Gravel and MTB riding last year. It was amazing when I achieved my first cycling goal that was only 6 miles. Now I’m doing much more with ease and the MTB riding this year has been phenomenal! Good luck to everyone else out there that’s also starting late, but it’s been nothing less than a wonderful life transition experience, it really leads to another exciting stage in life. Remember don’t give up, the rewards will absolutely exceed your dreams. “Happy Trails”
I turned 60 in March of this year. I’m going to follow this series with interest. Over the years I’ve kept myself fit. Currently I bike, hike, run I’m expecting to live another 30+ years. I’ve had one or two injuries over the years, the most recent being two years ago when I ruptured my quadriceps tendon. I made a good recovery and was hiking eight weeks later. If I can keep doing my activities into my 80s I’ll be grateful and satisfied.
I have just turned 64. Sport has accompanied me throughout my life. More than 20 years of handball, then 10 years of triathlon and long-distance running in the 80s/90s. I had to cut back for professional reasons, but have always been able to maintain my fitness to some extent by running and cycling. As a former professional soldier, I am now retired and have all the time in the world to fully enjoy my sport again. Unfortunately, I can no longer run due to my hip problems, but cycling - whether on a road bike or gravel bike - is my absolute passion. Unfortunately, I've neglected strength training somewhat, but I'm going to start now because it's so important to maintain your strength as you get older. I'm looking forward to your other videos on this topic.
Great idea for a series. I'm 73 and ride every day, and lift weights three times a week. Like so many of the people here I have no plans to stop or slow down. I've been doing this since I was a kid - first tennis through college and then as a teaching pro. Then running, soccer, kayaking, road cycling, and so on. An interesting fellow you might want to do a piece about is Robert Marchand, a French cyclist who at 104 was able to able to average 15 mph for one hour (among other cycling records he set). He continued cycling through age 107 but stopped competing for records on doctors' advice (orders) when he was 106. He died at age 109 in 2021. Pretty inspiring I'd say.
That is what I tell all my friends that’s my goal when they ask me why I ride my bike so much, everyday.I Iam 75 and ride everyday too. I make it a point to ride my age +1 in miles every birthday. Set your goals high!!
I am 74. I ride at25 mph with 1000 feet of climbing and 25 miles every day. I also row hike kayak and take frequent walks. I do strength training training. I think that’s an important aspect of this and shouldn’t be neglected my maximum heart rate is 178 and my pulse is 51 of course I was a professional cyclist and graduate school, but what’s really kept me going is that I’ve been an active athlete my entire life it’s important to not overdo it, however, if you exercise and the very strongest, most intense way, you can actually damage your heart at that age so be careful. Some high intensity work is good, but not too much changes in the heart take place with some of the cell structure of the heart which don’t happen at a younger age. This is definitely something to look up on UA-cam. There’s some excellent research showing that’s true. otherwise you’re doing great.
If you’d like chapter and verse on this from a cardiologist, himself an older athlete, you might want to watch the latest in this series. How hard to train? A Cardiologist on heart health for older athletes ua-cam.com/video/olg90Dq9ay8/v-deo.html
The old adage "If you dont use it you lose it" is a solid truth. I'm 66 years old and fortunately I love the outdoors and am in good health to enjoy it. I cycled 2600 kms of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route last year. I am going back this year to finish the last 1600 km. We are a lot more capable then we realize. Thank you for all your videos, I appreciate and enjoy your work
For me, I do a lot of meditation, some yoga, walking and being very careful with my diet. At 63 I find this a good balance for me. I’m glad you’re not trying to advocate a one size fits all approach.
Thank you for using the proper adverb 'healthily'. Probably the biggest impediment to exercise as we age, even though we maintain a proper weight, is our joints. Sadly after middle age our joints just aren't the same. Even worse if one develops osteoarthritis or RA. Now 73 I got hit with RA in my legs at age 45 but with proper medication I kept exercising mostly my mountain bike, resistance exercises every 3rd day, and swimming in summertime. Yes, you do have to put up with some minor aches and pains but the reward is strong muscles and cardio improvement. The key is to never stop exercising. Btw booze, drugs, smoking, and over-eating will ensure you will never have retirement years.
73 and about to saddle up for a 20 mile ride. Been a cyclist for 44 years, vegetarian for 52 years and a non drinker for 25 years. Not as cross fit as you are, Mr. AAA. But, as others commenting here, staying reasonably fit enables one to enjoy life longer and more fully. Cheers.
Good video on a good subject. I am 64 and I, like everyone else here, intend on going out with a bang. I have have two life changing events that showed me that I am not invincible. I now am feeling the "10 summers" deadline. One thing that I have to share is my bodies ability to heal itself quickly. I don't know if I heal well because of my diet or my lifestyle. I am a farmer who exercises and eats a high meat diet. As people post information on the comments section we can all learn. I look forward to the science.
Interesting - most people I know would say rate of healing has dropped with age. I only eat meat when I know its provenance, usually friends have raised it and had it slaughtered on Mull. Sounds like you have come from good breeding stock! 😁
I just stumbled onto program and my eyes went wide, terrific and way overdue! Haven't seen the rest but most certainly look forward to them. I'm 78+ male been a competitive swimmer all my life, now open water swim on Lake Michigan (when it doesn't try to eat me) and cycle almost daily. Oh and climb up and down on my 135yo Swedish farmhouse...it's my vertical health club. Ooorah to you!!
I am 75 years old and still ride mountain bike or gravel bike 4-5 days a week 8 months and downhill ski 4-5 days a week for 4 months. Basically it been part of my life style. It’s not just something that I do it’s who I am. I been retired for a while but still work part time in a ski shop on weekends during the season. During the summer my wife and I sea kayak 1-2 days a week. Yoga on a regular basis has helped maintain the necessary flexibility, balance and breathing.
Hi from Thailand. Retired expat, 77. I walk about 90 minutes a day. Long motorcycle rides 3-4 times acweek. Before did gym and some boxing. Unfottunately moved and no gym here. Have home weights, hopefully this will motivste me to start again. Thanks for the video.
That doctor is taking BS. I rode up snowdon some years ago (the road up to it) and there was a really old guy on a road bike following us up. He wasn’t far behind. When we reached the top he creaked off his bike and we got chatting. Turns out he was 85 years old and he told us he rides it daily and claimed it’s what kept him alive. Fair play. I have taken his advice to heart and aim to be like him. You start to die when you stop moving that’s the fact of the matter.
I’m a little late but jumping on. I turn 68 tomorrow. When I was 18 I went to an Outward Bound camp. I asked the kayaking instructor how to stay upright in tough water. He said ‘Just keep paddling, harder than you think you need to’. That has stuck with me for 50 f%#*{}ing years.
Hi, you are absolutely right, I'm 81 and have been riding for for 40 years three times a week. Just keep going. My pals are a little younger but that helps me going. Thanks for your intrest.
55yo here, want to keep riding into my 80s. Looking forward to the series. A quote I love: "Motivation is fickle. Thats where discipline and consistency take over."
I became too old for cycling in my 20's. Carpel tunnel syndrome made my hands go numb just at the thought of gripping handle bard... just like now... and it affects my guitar playing. My podiarist forbids me from running due to my flat feet and posterial tibial tendonitis. None the less not cycling all these years my legs are still super strong.... maybe it's all the skiing I do as an instructor but my lower body is exceptional I praise all the cycling I did in my late teens and early twenties for giving me leg strength and endurance into old age. At 68 I still have all the aches, pains I had in my 40's but now I know what to do and they never bother me as I recognize the need for rest and water cures almost every age related ache and pain. Exercise and fitness are life long passions that start early in life and pays the dividends in to old age.
Ni😊ce start Simon. I had my 80th birthday last week and my wife and i spent the day cycling our bikes in Albir in the Costa Blanca. I did 4000km last year and am over 3000km so far this year. Am planning my next ten years on my three electric bikes, riding in the sunshine of later life. Keep it up.
I’m 67 and started my fitness lifestyle in my early 20s. Cycling, weight training and other endurance activities had always been part of who I am. My wife is always adopted this lifestyle although a little later in life as we married when she was 28
I'm 77 and have been riding seriously since I was 40, racking up well over 120K miles along the way. In the last couple years I was having trouble keeping off some weight. This past September my wife was diagnosed with a liver condition that can only be halted and slightly improved by a strict diet. I decided that I would also do the same as I will not eat something she cannot. We had to eliminate two things, sugar and flour. Flour causes inflammation in the liver and sugar fills the liver with fatty deposits leading to hardening. Since the 13th of Sept we have both lost 20 lbs and the results for me personally has been to increase energy and performance on the bike. I look forward to your videos.
Gosh, fascinating. I knew sugar and refined flour was bad. Is the same true of unrefined organic flour in sourdough? Well done one the weight drop and feeling better.
I am doing what you preach. I am an avid hiker and backpacker. I have been losing weight through proper diet, and increasing my effort every year so I can complete a through hike of the Colorado Trail in a couple of years. However, I wouldn't call it "motivation", but "dedication". Motivation is fleeting. You have to be dedicated to reach the goals you set.
I walked the 500-mile Camino de Santiago at 65-years of age. Next month, I am walking the Camino Portuguese-I'll be 72 this time. Getting older offers more challenges for staying fit, but the satisfaction on accomplishments is also also higher.
Sounds great Stephen! I rode the Camino in 1991 and didn't meet one other pilgrim, so I think it has changed. Great to have targets and goals to motivate
I’m with you. I’m 77 years old, a USMC Vietnam veteran and a Firefighter veteran. I’ve been a cyclist since 1970, and avid hiker as well. I have found that resistance training is very important along with stretching and cardio. I started taking Creatine (5 grams a day) 4 months ago and the improvement in strength, endurance and muscle has been amazing. No side effects, but water weight gain will occur, however the body’s metabolism changes and fat loss is noticeable. Just keep moving…walk, hike, cycle, or swim. Don’t stop moving!
I’m 70. I’ve already cycled 6200 miles for 2023. My New Year’s resolution is to ride 7000 for 2024. There is no doubt that I’ll do it. That’s what it takes. Good nutrition and the will and commitment to accomplish the unattainable. 😊❤
I'm in, and subbed!! Turned 60 4 months ago, and am still getting after it, just like I did in my teens. I'm a firm believer in: What you do in the previous decade, paves the way for the next. Looking forward to watching your vids (your videography and editing it outstanding)! I also post vids, and am currently detailing the process and outcome of a pair of surgeries that I had earlier this year to straighten my bowed legs, save what remains of my damaged knees, and keep on being athletic. Cheers!
Just love this. Cycling is my passion (used to be tennis) this year I’ve done 3 200k audax, my first gravel event, 3 yrs ago did LeJog, I’m 71 and next yr hope to do some longer distance events. I refuse to accept age as a limiting factor. I really believe keeping moving is key (I also walk my dog 3 times every day). Particularly looking forwards to your take on nutrition and strength training 👍
Absolutely fantastic, as a seasoned cyclist I’m so pleased I’ve stumbled across your UA-cam channel, so informative and you seem like such a great chap, thanks for doing this and sharing your knowledge, nice taking the journey with 😊
If I may make a suggestion: in the US, the physiologists at the US Olympic training center(s) have been open to discussions about athletics and aging. In fact, people like us are their prime source of empirical data on the topic. I know a number of national level cyclists that are slightly older than I am and you can see them aging, of course, but you usually don't see them limping around. or sitting. Unless they have had the dreaded "Fall". All of that, being active and getting sufficient sleep to allow healing factors, may be the simplest way to "extend" our duration of activeness. And the activity is likely to slow the aging process, but ultimately, it is just an extension. A welcomed extension, don't get me wrong. Above all, be safe. You don't bounce as well as you used to when you were in your 20's. You have to blend the adventure with a larger safety factor.
Hey Keith - the Healthy Habits video starts with sleeping - absolutely crucial in my view. You’re right about sitting - I’ve heard it described as ‘the new smoking’. I’m hoping I can leverage the interesting in these initial videos to persuade some genuine experts, like those you mention, to share some of that expertise. All of which lies ahead… The rest of the published videos are here tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
I'm 87 and still racing in Thames racing skiffs, Used to be an ultra-distance runner until knocked off bike in 1992. A old running colleague of mine - also top cyclist -was trying to set the cycling 10k road record for the over 90s a year or so ago. Look for sports in later life which have little load on the joints and you can carry on till kingdom comes, which it does to all of us. Oh diet, high natural fats (butter, ghee, lard, beef dripping, cream, raw or unhomogenised milk, olive and coconut oils - no other veg oils: grass-fed ruminants - what they eat goes into you) and low carbohydrate, sugar.
Great idea Simon, I would be interested in your methods to keep active...I’m 64 and have always being active cycling, running, fell walking etc I have definitely changed the ways I cycle, run etc over the years. The general trend had been to forget about the times, data of each activity and instead enjoy the aesthetic experience of being outdoors. This has reduced the burn out and fatigue and kept me active. It took me a long time to reach this obvious piece of wisdom. I still tend to ride too hard on my bike sometimes which inevitably leads to me getting sick of cycling but I return to it after a short hiatus. I am fortunate to live in rural Northumberland so I am spoilt for choice for routes and rides. Personally I cannot stand the monotony of indoor gym exercises and will only go on the turbo in the foulest of weather. I am insufferable when injured and feel an awful creeping sense of unease if confined to barracks. I tend to eat real food and avoid lots of sugar. For me being outdoors doing something keeps me grounded and sane but I am never going to be as fast and strong as I was as a younger man but that’s absolutely fine.looking forward to your series.
At 77 I still ride as much as I can or feel like. And I ride alone as that way I will not slow other riders down. And the younger ones are faster as well. It is still ok as riding makes one feel better after than before and it is always worth it.
I paddled out at Jensen Beach, not big 6 feet and I was sitting near a guy, maybe 30 years away. He eventually looked at me and said "I'm impressed." He elaborated, "His 38 years old friend was back standing on the beach looking out at us having not been able to paddle through the middle break sandbar." I said, "38 was 25 years ago." We laughed. But I don't eat meat. My basic foods are whole grain rice, whole milk plain yogurt bananas, and some green vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers and green cabbage (which I add to hot water with Ramen). I do a basic core each morning or whenever. I ride the 6 miles out and 6 miles back from the condo to Stuart Beach. Once or twice a week maybe some very light dumb bells range of motion movements and paddling in the surf for upper body. My surfing is mostly paddling. I still ride a 6'2" on cleaners stuff or maybe I take a egg or a bigger mush board out on crappy days. I will even paddle around on my 8'5" on flat weekends to talk to the girls. It's my basic belief in endurance mostly. Riding for lower body. Paddling for upper body. Then there is Summers in Bulgaria hiking. Trails up and down, nice and slow, and swimming or biking. But with everything, slow is fast and just keep the cadence up. I recently did a BP check: 116/71 and 65 bpm resting pulse. And I'm not that thin at all. But it's the feeling of keeping in motion. I don't go for strength. It's endurance.
62 years old and my fitness has suffered a little since lockdown. I Intend doing the Frontier 300 next year and his series could not have come at a better time. Thank you Simon. Keep on keeping on 😀
I'm 68 haven't run for over 20 years.. haha.. but this year I spent two months riding my old motorbike 6000miles to Istanbul. Via Germany, Poland , Romania.. back up the Adriatic.. camping out all the way. People who don't do it, think it's a holiday, and don't realise how utterly exausting it is, but so rewarding... The other real issue, (for me) are the little buggers, ... Mosquitoes. The signes warning not to feed bears was a concern, but as you say. "Don't let the old Man in". And don't listen to that little voice, saying, "don't go. It may be dangerous". The great outdoors, and adventure, is the essence of life, not the comfy warm bed, upstairs... Best wishes
Thanks Tony. We have a couple of bikers in the village my age who go all over the place (not as big as your amazing trip!) and I tease them about just sitting back and letting the motor do the work. But I realise that your sort of biking really is exhausting in a different way. Long may you ride!
As a lifelong outdoor adventurist and a landscape contractor now 66, I just want to continue what has been what I do. I don’t pay attention to those I know who have given up on their own fitness, I do what I can and truly am grateful for everyday that my body can give me another bike ride, another hike, another day of skiing, and another day of work. Too old…..for what?
I’ll be 70 in April god willing. Always been a keen cyclist Walker and fairly decent badminton player. I’m still fit but haven’t done a lot of those three since the first covid lockdown. I started riding a modest motorbike again, back in 2019 with my sons group and since then my social life has exploded with regular weekly meetings, great food and literally hundreds of potential new like minded friends, a lot are the same age as me. ( and it’s a lot easier riding up steep hills this way!)😁
I’m convinced that exercise and nutrition are key to a long, healthy and happy life, although there’s always the chance of illness, at least you are stacking the odds in your favour. I’m 55 and run or cycle pretty much every day. It’s not so easy in the winter to stay motivated, but I feel so much better after my daily exercise “fix”, that I keep going even when it’s cold / wet. I do avoid cycling when roads are icy…don’t want to invite accidents!
I do NOT have all the answers. The first videos will feature on what I currently do - food, strength, aerobic conditioning. Then I'll visit experts and try to improve. What works for me might not work for you.
Full series ▶︎ tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
your missing the most fun part of competing at events when your in 60s and that is beating people less than half your age !!!! still a buzz !
@@nickw6175 well now you mention it… YES! 😁
Great stuff but’ You couldn’t find another expert..’ (?) ‘ The Lazarus Strategy’ by Dr Norman Lazarus. Started endurance cycling and changed his life time in his 60’s 👍🏾
I'm 61 and no longer run , but I ride all the time and make videos about it , Don't worry about how far or fast you go ! Just go.... And have fun 😊
Not sure i agree with the last part of your comment about how fast or far we can go. As someone who is months away from hitting the 60th year, it is critically important to me how fast i ride. I have hit the holy grail of 30kmph on a one hour ride a few months ago and did a multi day 500kms ride last week. Both required the use of my brain in planning, calculating and using my body to execute. So riding fast or riding far is very important i think
Then by all means , have a miserable time while you ride Lol
I do exactly the same thing! Ride baby ride!
Gotta be careful with running at 60+, but cycling is fine 👍
I love riding and running. My knees really don’t like me running anymore, but I do some of it.
Hi from Finland. I am a 74 year old woman, retried since 2013 and attended my 1st ”Vätternrundan” (315 km) in Sweden last summer. I am so proud of myself 💪.
Hi Helen - I just looked up that event - Wow! Well done. It looks great!
I would be too.💪🦿🦿💪
I’m 69 y/o and do Ultra cycling 🚴 best distance solo, not drafting and self sufficient 404 km in 22.7 km/he avg. I’m preparing for a 600 km. 500 km will be done within 24 hrs and the rest I will take my time. I stretch 1 hr/ day avg; Do spinning 2 to 3 X week at high intensity for 1 hr each session; ski at high level 3 to 4 X/w. Speed walk with my dog 5-6 days/w for 80 min avg and weight training x 2/w with weight. And II have recovery time. I’m surrounded being by people my age or older who are hard core like me. And use video like this one to motivate myself..🙏🏻
Suomalainen sisua.
Wow you have inspired me to get out and get moving❤
I love this series and look forward to more episodes. I am 80 years old (female) and started running in 1964. I have run 52 marathons and ultramarathons and now cycle. I am cycling about 70 to 80 miles a week on my fat tire bike on trails. How long can I keep this up? :)
I do yoga, stretch and do strength exercises. I expect someday I will wake up with some exoitic disease but so far so good. No prescription drugs for me and I am a vegetarian.
How lovely to share your knowledge and let others know we don't have to spend the last years of our lives sitting in a chair. My advice: keep moving and eat healthy foods!
All power to you Pat!
So inspiring!
Pat that's fantastic! What I do won't suit everyone, but I'm trying to show - as you have identified - that it's a good range of activities that seems to work best
Wow! That’s amazing! This is very inspiring! Keep going.
👏👏👏
72, still running, biking, swimming, lifting heavy, and jumping rope x 46 years now and competing occasionally. Will never stop!
Yes you will; believe me. I was once 72.
Now im 64, I'm falling apart like a cheap suit, I get my 5 visits to the local pool and am struggling with arthritis in my feet and hands but f**k it. I'm on my mtb and cyclo cross every week.
I'll stop when my body tells me it's had enough.
Right now I won't slip on the old age' slippers.
Stay positive and keep encouraging each other and thanks for the video channel Simon, you're a great inspiration to us senior road warriors.
Bob
Cheers Bob - I'm with you. "No slippers" - I want that on a t-shirt!
"I'll stop when my body tells me it's had enough."
Never stop. Your body has never had enough. Due to injuries I can´t bicycle now but I do other type of training 4-6 hours per day, incl. rehab exercises. I combine a home gym with a local gym to get back to bicycling andd other sports. That way I entertain my general fitness and muscular strength.
You should seriously consider reviewing what you eat. My wife works in a local private hospital. She was complaining of aching painful joints which one of the orthopaedic surgeons diagnosed as early onset arthritis. I wasn’t in agreement and suggested she eliminate items from her diet. We soon discovered that sugar was the cause in her case. Eliminated or reduced that. Pain free now.
This is totally inspiring. Avoiding slips, trips and falls is the main thing the older you get.
Yep - stability is a key point and something to factor in as part of strength training as you age.
I took a nasty fall on my road bike in Sept. 2023 (got distracted on a steep climb and went off the road😓) and your comment is right on topic. Keep going, but don't fall!
Absolutely agree. I had to end my long-distance bicycling at 66 after new accidents/injuries . Those new accidents were not from bicycling but my body did not care about what caused the injuries ....An new injury is more difficult to handle the older You are and the more previous injuries You have.
@@staffanlundbergtricycle might be good
Right. I think we get tentative as we get older. It's both a physical and mental problem to overcome.
Love reading the comments here. So many active seniors. Very inspirational. I just turned 65 and do a lot of walking, hill walking as you call it, with my Welsh Springer Spaniel and do weights at least 3 times per week. I can't imagine not being able to walk up steep hills like so many people my age.
Well, what an interesting topic, at least for us "older athletes." Life long recreational athlete here. Long distance road cyclist (daily rides 60-80km; weekend rides 100+ km; occasional centuries 100 miles = 160 km). Cross country skier. Ice skater. Ice hockey player. As a 70+ y.o. friend of mine who played goalie said, "I still go down fast. I don't get up quite so fast any more." Decades ago I was a long distance runner. Daily half-marathon. Not running at the moment cause of some wonky problem in my left knee. Doesn't stop me from taking a brisk, daily walk. Three years ago added strength training with kettlebells, heavy clubs and maces. BEST decision I ever made. I am stronger and more fit than ever. I'll turn 65 in eight weeks. Looking forward to the series.
Great to hear! Hopefully you’ve already found over twenty videos in this series.
73 here, and find the more I cycle, the healthier and more enjoyable my life becomes.
Looking forward to this series Simon. I suffered a bleed on the brain in Feb 22, and was found to have a tumor in there as well 😲☹️
However I'm discharged from the consultants care and the tumor has been removed. I'm back walking 12 miles in the hills and back on the bike. No where near what I was capable of at 64 before the bleed....so at 66 now I intend making the best of the rest of my life.
The power of positive thought and a bit of determination is my recipe!
Cheers Alistair 👍
Wow Alastair. That’s quite a come-back. I hope your base fitness will help with the gradual return to fitness
Wow, I suffered a brain bleed on March 23 and spent 2 weeks in ICU. I finished a 100 mile bike ride the week end before. Was swimming the next week when it happened. After 1200 meters, I stood up with a horrific headache. Next thing I know, I wake up with lifeguards taking care of me. All the tests did not find anything for which I am thankful. It put a dent in my lifestyle as I had to take it easy. It has taken a while to get back to my normal activities. Played some softball starting in August. In October, I completed a Metric century bike ride and 2 sprint triathlons. Finally running again and plan to compete in more triathlons. By the way, I`m 70. Like you said, positive thoughts and determination.
@@buffalochips1323 proper running is proving difficult (I used to compete in mountain marathons) but as you say positive thoughts and determination will I hope win through.
Continue with your recovery, best wishes Alistair 👍
Jeez, best wishes … thoughts with you
Dude! Can't keep a good man down! Power to you, brother. Respect.
Looking forward to this series. I'm a 60y/o woman and ride with a lot of older men in their mid to late 70's and early 80's and I can honestly say they are still pushing it and looking and feeling great! I'm also aware that we are probably that 1% of the population that actually do this sort of thing into our later years. Most of us in our cycling club ride at least 3 to 4 times a week - 80 to 100km each time with variety of intensity depending on the hills. Most also do some kind of strength training and yoga/mobility work a few times a week.
Sounds like that's the recipe. Lots of bits of stuff done consistently.
With electric bikes cycling at an old age becomes doable for most of us.
Same here. I’m 62 and a cyclist most of my life. The group I ride with averages 120-150 miles per week with some ride’s average speed over 20mph. I’m actually riding better now than when I was young. I can ride 4 times a week with no stress about work or other distractions that affect you when you’re working full time.
I loved your video thank you
I’m 70 years young, i was an extremely dedicated weight lifter and cyclist in my 20’s and 30’s I’ve slowed down over the years, when I retired I started hiking every day with my dog but he died 6 months ago, so I sold my old bike and bought a new bike and some weights, I really look forward to it every day now.
Looking forward to more ,I’m 64 and train twice a day 6 days a week,swim bike and run,with strength and conditioning in the mix,I do triathlons and love being fit,was a heavy drinker up to I was 55 then decided to change my life I’ve been sober now for 7 years ,I’ve qualified for team GB twice,just being fit
Big congratulations Colin! I should be watching your stuff!!
",was a heavy drinker up to I was 55 then decided to change my life"
Awesome ! And what a change You did !
Colin, you’re amazing!!!🦿🦿👍
Sorry to hear about 10 years remaining at age 65 since I’ll be 74 in about 3 weeks. But I don’t believe it. I’ve kept reasonably fit over the years and struggled back from 1 or 2 serious injuries/illnesses but when I got into my late sixties and my body started to decline, I decided it was time to get serious about my health and fitness. Ran my first half marathon on my 70th birthday and my first full marathon a few weeks before my 73rd. Two years ago got introduced to triathlon and expanded my sports repertoire to include cycling and swimming. The fun part is even at my age with hard work I’ve been able to learn these sports and vastly improve my performance especially the endurance part. My current goal is to complete a Ironman 70.3 next year. They say the way to stay young is to not hang out with old people. I’m not sure about that but I do know that every time I stand in the queue waiting for the start of some race, I feel like a young man again. Looking forward to the video series and hope to pick up a few useful tips. Cheers.
That's fantastic! And what great goals. Mine was an Ironman before 60 which I managed but then dropped distances to 70.3. My wife got fed up on not seeing me (always training) so I have moderated distances, but totally agree about having something to aim towards. The best of luck for the 70.3 - reaching the start line is the challenge - finishing is then just fun.
Right. I try to never look backward. Just keep going forward and don't think about it.
This is a great channel and I’m very pleased to see an active senior citizen preach the benefits of keeping fit into late adulthood.Sadly most people don’t understand the benefit of exercise and reap the negative side affects of sedentariness later in life, like losing the ability to get out of a chair or walk. I I turned 50 this year and have no intention stopping anything, active weightlifter, mountain biker and hiker for 35 yrs. I think one lesson I’ve learned over the years is to learn to listen to my body, rest/recovery and fatigue management are very important. You won’t realise your gains if you’re constantly tearing yourself down. From the States, keep up the good work old boy!
I’m 58 and spent this past year off the bicycle in order to fight Lymphoma. I’m at the tail-end of my treatments and looking forward to this series to discover ways back in cycling health. Thank you in advance for all your time and efforts for creating this content and sharing it with us. It’s truly inspirational.
I hope the recovery goes well
I'm 65 and still riding my mtb. Planning to shift to gravel bike . Just keep on, don't give up easily. Thanks for your video.❤
Wonderful series. I'm 74 with a bad hip from a bike fall and urostomy bag after bladder removal. But I still ride my e bike in weather without snow, walk daily and distance swim in the sea just like you. I plan to resume paddle board surfing as soon as my hip allows me better balance again. Thanks for the inspiration.
Hi to every one.I am 78 healthy,i road bike around 6/7 thousand Km yearly,I run an avarage 40/50 Km monthly,swim when the water here in Italy is warm,at times I go to the pool,swim for about an hour,gym and stretching weekly.Food I eat what a normal Italian has on the table.If I can give some advice,regardless how you feel.Annually have a medical examination,blood work,including coronary tests.Once all the tests are in order,sit back and put your body to work.You should not have any problem reaching 100.
Sounds like great advice.
Agree and thanks for the advice. I bike regularly too . The other thing that keeps me healthy and positive is humour. I laugh at myself and what others do and don't get caught up in all the current political events.
Thank you for this series, I love it. I’m 2 weeks shy of my 62nd birthday and 3 weeks past heart valve repair. Went for my first post-surgery run yesterday and ran again today. Tomorrow is pickle ball and yoga, then mountain biking Thursday. It stinks having to build back up after being restricted for 8 weeks, but there’s no other way to get back into it. I will never stop until my body forces me to step down.
I’m not ignoring you David - just spending a couple of days with Donnie Campbell up in Inverness learning what I should be doing!
Yes, the series is not aimed at the Couch-to-5k. There’s a lot of that on YT and of course, I’m reporting what I do, not what others should be doing. I appreciate the lack of activity is the big killer, and I think the likes of Joe Wicks do a great job at getting people to start. I’m pitching a level higher, for folk who cycle regularly and are wondering “is this enough?”
I think you might appreciate that book and, because you understand the science, his podcast called The Drive. Frankly the latter is WAY over my head 😊😊
Thanks, Simon, I'll look out for the podcast - something to listen to while Zwifting! ;-)
Re: "Is that enough?", in terms of improving longevity there's a pretty good globally-agreed standard (for aerobic activity, that is). It might actually tie in well with your section on "time in zones", and would be interesting to see if it does actually "tie in", in terms of being roughly equivalent. Is it OK if I send you an email separately, so I'm not clogging up the comments?
@@davidrowe8747 please do - alwaysanotheradventureAToutlookDOTcom
@@alwaysanotheradventure will try to do that later today. I've exchanged emails with you in the past, so have you on file already. ;-) For some reason, I'm not getting alerts for these messages ....
@@alwaysanotheradventure email just sent, Simon. You might need to put the kettle on! ;-)
Looking forward to your series. I love it when a fit older guy shares what he has learned. I'm 80 years old and have become skilled in several endurance sports over the years. I think being skilled in several sports is important because it is easy to burnout psychologically. Perhaps that's the reason so many sports are seasonal. I have trained and competed in wrestling, running, XC skiing, swimming, cycling, and, my biggest sport, canoe and kayak racing. At age 65 I started doing triathlons (sprint distance). After six years of that I switched mainly to cycling and XC skiing. Since my upper body has always been my strength, I devised an exercise routine to fight sarcopenia. The routine actually made my muscles bigger and stronger. I pay close attention to the science and that's why I think I have been successful.
This really is fantastic to hear and very encouraging. I wholeheartedly endorse the multi-sport approach. There are quite a few videos in this series already live with a few to come. tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos You'd be great to feature - I'll just nip over from Scotland to visit 😁
I am 79 and still cycling, running, teaching downhill skiing (my 40+ year). I did my first Ironman at 58 my first Ultraman triathlon at 61 and set the World record for The Ultraman Triathlon World Championships in Hawaii at 65 the oldest to ever do it. Ultraman involves a 10k ocean swim a 421k bike and a double marathon 84.4k.I also did it at 68 my fourth Ultraman. I Have won 5 Xterra World Trail 1/2 marathon championships the last one at age 75 then covid came and ended my streak re no races. I have done over 40 marathons & ultras in my 60’s & 70’s and still going. I belong to a Boston marathon group who still run marathons in their 75-79 and 80-84. Three in the group have won Boston outright when they were younger and another guy has done 48 Bostons. I have done a number of sports during my life, obviously have good genes, have been very fortunate not to have badly injured myself with long lasting injuries. 5’7” and natural weight of 132- 138 lbs depending on training and without dieting but eating healthy. I still love all the so called bad stuff but just don’t eat a lot of it. I am conscious of salt intake, bad fats and sugar but have never dieted but always have been active. WE ARE MEANT TO MOVE ! Remember It is never too late. Cheers
I will be 77 in Feb.
My motivation is primarily to be strong and do HIIT twice a week for cardiovascular fitness . I devote the other days to strength training .
For my upper body I do 250 push-ups in 5 minutes .
After resting for 5 minutes
I do 45 hammer pull-ups and 15 hammer pull-ups with 10 kilograms and 30 chin-ups
My core days emphasize timed prone cobras, timed locusts , dead bugs, timed Superman’s ,parallel points and 10 standing evil wheels
For my legs I do clock lunges with 80lbs , timed ski tucks , split squats with 70lbs , step ups with 70 lbs and 100 light squats ( 75lb)
I was really taken with this series. I still go cycling and enjoy it as much as I did when I was a kid, I just do it differently. One thing I have done recently is started a garden. It is good exercise, gets me outside when I'm not riding my bike, and I grow my own food so a balanced diet is definitely easier. So bring on the series!!!
Gardening is great - my wife tells me. I can't get into it but I'm happy to eat the results of her efforts. Quite a lot of the series is already live - YT might inly be showing you the first tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
Very glad this popped up in my feed. 62 year old female, past marathoner, triathlete and climber here. In retirement with no one dependent on me anymore, I’m working at resuming marathoning and just generally being physically up for whatever adventure strikes my fancy. My nod to my age is a much more measured approach to things that will break down my body and more emphasis on those that will build it up with less risk of damage.
Sounds like we’re on exactly the same page!
Please keep the series going. I'm 69 and weight lift, cycle, and go hiking/walking with a 25 lb backpack (camera gear).I try to do at least one a day. Recently had a health issue that caused the doctors to prohibit me from exercise . Long story short, a stent and some cardiac therapy and I'm finally cleared to exercise. Amazing how far my strength and stamina have reduced from just 2 and a half months of inactivity. It's starting to come back and it looks like your series could have some good info and be very motivational.
Glad it’s coming back.
You’re tough!!!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Looking forward to this. I'm 52 years old, and was diagnosed with arthritis in my 40's. Medicated and well under control, however. Keen walker, occasional cyclist. Completed the Ridgeway in April, which 90 miles in 4 days, and have done additional hikes along the Grand Union canal from my home in Aylesbury to the Paddington Basin. My better half and I are currently taking on the entirety of the Thames Path, , which will amount to 180 miles once done. Doing this in chunks however due to life commitments. The great outdoors is a wonderful incentive to remain fit and agile, in both mind and body. I love your attitude and look forward to hearing what you have to say.
Great to hear from you Rob
This looks great, Simon! I'm nearly 63, regularly cycling and trail running, and want to keep doing it as long as possible. Lead on!
Simon. Very good stuff, as always. I’m 78 and still riding road, gravel and mountain bikes … I’ll await these episodes with interest although you’re already making the fundamentals clear.
Cycling is a life time activity. A man in his 80’s would come into my shop several days per week, on his road bike! He was on top of everything. That is how old
I'm 61 and run 4-6 Ultra Marathons a year. In September I completed the 220 mile Tor de Geants in the Italian Alps in 127 hours placing me comfortably in the top 25% of the starting field. The truth is that I actually forget how old I am (apart form the loss of my hair!). Use it or lose it. Cardio, diet, sleep and resistance training are all key. And, to be fair, a bit of luck too. Thank you for these videos!
I'd add - pick your parents wisely! You're doing great David - very impressive achievements
" And, to be fair, a bit of luck too." Absolutely. Bad luck /accidents bring You down faster the older Your are. Avoid them like the plague !!
Age doesn't matter as long as we want to do what we really love. May you always stay healthy and live long in this world ❤
I’m 64, and stopped running about 30 years ago after major knee injuries. The bicycle was like magic to my life….made it possible to hike, and to do calisthenics.
I am 76 yrs old. On my annual wellness checkups my doctor will say to me "my prescription for you and your arthritis is go out and keep riding your bike!" I follow that prescription to the letter by riding 3000+ miles every year. I also am a certified ski instructor and last year skied 48 X's at our local ski area. All this definately helps to keep my knee arthritis in check.
Good doctor!
I am 72 years old. 3 years ago I was forced to retire from truck driving across America due to health issues. I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. I needed a total reverse shoulder replacement. I couldn’t walk more than a couple of hundred feet or stand up for more than a couple of minutes due to degenerative disc disease and degenerative facit joint disease in my back. I recently had had a heart attack and had to get a stent placed in my heart. I had severe arthritis in my feet and hands.
Three years ago, when I retired I got my shoulder replacement and had to take physical therapy. As part of the therapy I had to work out on a stationary bicycle. It made me remember how much fun I had on a bicycle when I was a child. I subsequently decided I needed to get back into cycling after 60 years. It turned out to be the best decision I had ever made. I now ride at least one hundred miles per week for five months and it is warm enough in Ohio. I am stronger than I have been in decades and I’m having the time of my life. I ride on the road and go mountain biking. I love to mountain bike but here in Ohio, the trails are closed whenever it rains and for several days after.
What a superb story Martin, thank you so much for sharing it. And damn well done!
I’m 63 and have about 60K miles on my 2001 bike. Rode 5K miles the year I turned 56 and rode 2.5K miles each of the last two years while undergoing prostate cancer surgery and radiation treatments. Weightlifting 2-4X a week and hiking when I can. Blessed to be where I’m at physically. BUT, THE NUMBERS AREN’T WHAT MATTERS! What does is KEEP MOVING… plan time for physical activity every day. God bless y’all!
Our bodies have only so much graft and sporting activities in them. A lot depends on your work history and more importantly your injury list. I’m 60 and cycle a minimum of 150 miles a week, I stopped running years ago because I physically can’t. Detached ACL, compression vertebra fracture injury at 19 and the list goes on. I’m 72kg at 6’ retired at 57 and can still put 20 year olds to bed on the Peak District climbs. Diet, lifestyle and proper recovery are key, however we’re all made different. Some of my friends have had knee replacements, hips etc and are younger than me. Great video and keep on keeping on fella, you’re an inspiration to many I’m sure! 👍🏼💜🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼 SUBSCRIBED
You’re absolutely right about working life - a hard physical job can leave your body in a worse situation. And we are all different. The rest of the series so far is here: tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
Perfect timing Sir. I'm 56, and a big fella, 16 st and 6'2". I used to play football at semi pro level, and boxing, as a young man. I've ridden bikes, all disciplines, for 30 years, but on and off. I say, perfect timing, because I've decided, from Saturday just gone, to get back into fitness training. Done 18 miles of walking in the past 3 days, and going to get out on my gravel bike on the nicer days. I'm looking forward to seeing this series, especially the nutrition side, something I've never been able to get right. Thanks for doing this. I'm an avid watcher of your channel & a big fan. 👍
Thanks - but remember I'm no expert. I'm showing what's working for me, and then following it up to learn ways I can improve. Hopefully it'll spark a few ideas to try.
@@alwaysanotheradventure no worries. I hear you. I like to see other people's ways and techniques, then try them and mould them into a way that works for me.
I agree with you. A positive attitude is needed. I'm 73 and feel like 53 and I plan multicast rides every week. I try to the YMCA everyday. I'm going to keep watching.
I'm turning 82 in another month. I'm able to keep biking and touring because of modern medicine. Two new knees, two cataract surgery, two Achilles tendon repairs, carpal tunnel repair have allowed me to keep moving. I have given up cross country skiing and river kayaking. It is just easier to peddle out my drive and take off for the day or a week, with no driving to starting point and pickup. I biked to work for almost 40 years rain, snow, heat, wind and cold. I saw no reason to stop. A few weeks ago I soloed a two day ride with an overnight in a state campground. My old biking mates are now in the Book of Memory. I will be on an all day ride on a Rail to Trail tomorrow and plan on getting in 70 miles.
That sounds great Tom - thanks for sharing
64 yo runner here. To me the key is an attitude of endless striving. I sum it up as being like water. I deal with an endless series of minor injuries largely due to some chronic issues like an old nail puncture in my foot and some torn ligaments around a knee. To keep going I must always flow around these obstacles, finding different ways to maintain cardio fitness and strength by adapting my regimen to reach the limit of my capabilities on any given day. If my tarsal metatarsal joint is inflamed I will rest it for as long as it takes to heal but as soon as it heals I will start running again. In the meantime I walk, cycle, and do resistance training. Every injury requires and different combination of patience and persistence but overall the key is never to give up on the whole enterprise
It's a great attitude. I find the concept of 'flow' more appealing than 'endless striving' which sounds like hard work (Sisyphus comes to mind 😁) but I completely get what you mean and agree.
Just been introduced by a friend to your channel via the interview you did with the cardiologist, I recognised your voice then eventually remember you from your Look North days as I live in Newcastle. I will be 60 in July, I have competed all my life, in cycling, running and for the last 14 years triathlon, I started as a cyclist joining at local club at 9 years old, competing as a schoolboy until about 18, then switched to running and back to cycling and Tri.
I was diagnosed last year with Atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia (AVNRT), after a CT scan it was identified that I had calcification in the 3 main arteries to the heart, which I was shocked due to my background, but maybe that is what caused it? I had an ablation in November which hasn’t worked, so now on a waiting list for a more advanced ablation. Looking forward to the episodes in this series which are very relevant to me, seems like a great channel👌
Look North feels like a different lifetime!
Brilliant, I'm 62 nearing 63 and have been a cyclist all of my life. That is the question I've been pondering, am I too old now. No, no and thrice no. You've hit a niche here. I look forward to following your videos on this subject.
Stumbled upon your UA-cam channel. Very nice! I"m 64, train daily for triathlon and more (i.e. long cycling events) ... Swim 2x per week, bike 3-4x per week (indoors now - Midwest USA), run 3-4x week, CrossFit 2-3x per week. I follow a whole food plant-based diet - no animal products (although I promise my wife and friends that I won't be socially complicated. I do have an occasional piece of Salmon when out with friends) Next up for me is 70.3 triathlon (65-69 age group). Later this year my wife (6 months younger) and I are planning Rim to Rim to Rim hike in the Grand Canyon. I'm inspired by endurance athletes of all ages... and hope to do the same for others. Thanks for sharing your journey! PS. Subscribed.
Hey Abe - I’m pleased you found the channel. 70.3 is a great distance - my favourite and much less punishing than full IM.
@@alwaysanotheradventure Agreed! I've done a couple of 140.6, just take a lot of time to train - if you're trying to actually have a good day out there. I failed to mention above - I work full time in the financial services industry, as well. Time is precious! I look forward to following and keeping in touch. Cheers!
Wonderful series Simon -- and much needed. Really looking forward to it. Keep up the great work.
Simon, many years ago I taught at Dylan Thomas’ old school… wonderful line : ‘Do not go gently in to that good night, rage, rage against the dying of the light’
Oh I love that!
I'm 70 and I am in your shoes and like you I have been adventuring, running , cycling, now kayaking, etc all of my adult life. I will use this series to motivate me to continue what we do to stay alive, vibrant, and relevant! Well done mate!!
Great topic to explore. Cant wait. I'm 68, still riding hard/consistently and i dont want to slow down
Exactly! Thank you.
Am 70 in December. Still cycling / strength training. Over the years have lots of TdF mountains, end to ends, Cape Argus and vélodyssée towing a trailer. Double heart bypass, cancer survivor and red wine lover. Never give up life is not a rehearsal.
Chapeau Ian - that's quite a life... so far
Will look forward to this series with interest. I’ve just turned 65 and enjoy trail running and cycling. I completed my first 50 mile Lake District ultra this year having done various ultras over the last few years. Most running channels seem to focus on the young ‘whippets’ who I accept I will never catch but I enjoy just enjoying the view while running or cycling and for me the challenge is simply to keep on completing the challenges I set myself…. I’m certainly aiming to keep going for a good few years yet! 👍
Sounds great! Quite a few videos already live here: tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
I am an almost 60yr old female who has always been active. Swimming, cycling and hiking. Have been wanting to get into trail running for the last few years, but was set back by a number of random fractures and osteopaenic scare. So I started doing weight training and I feel like I am getting stronger by the day. Just completed my first unofficial 21.5km trail run. So onwards and upwards I say. I look forward to your series - thank you,!!!
Fantastic! More videos already live here : tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
Awesome!! I'm a life long runner, cycler...etc. the last year I have fallen off the wagon, this is the inspiration I think I need. 58 years young and looking to kick some exercise butt!!!
Let's do this!!
Let us bear in mind that 65 is still quite young. At 70 I was cycling over a 100 km every Sunday, running 10km three times a week, and sea swimming up to 3km. Plus at cycling I could keep up with far younger cyclist. However at 77 I’m finding a drop off in my abilities. Just recently I have reluctantly stopped running because of knee pain, and could barely walk. I have since recovered but have decided to join a walking/ rambling group as I don’t want to risk not being able to walk pain free. Fortunately I’m still cycling and swimming but am now slower and not going as far. I always felt I’d be able to carry on forever but the closer I get to 80 I find a noticeable dip in my reactions and confidence.
I agree. I am a nurse. I have observed that until about 75, people can maintain active exercising regimens. However, most peoples' abilities start to wane after that. We can always walk! But balance issues start to be a factor plus joint and muscle injuries even in healthy and fit seniors.
I cycle with a lot of folks that are 75 + some start feeling it and slow down quite a bit after that but we have few that are still up there at the front of the group and killing it at 82 and 83!
@@nathaliedasilva555I really started to notice it when I got to my mid-eighties. I persevered until 90 at which point I put a light, simple, friction drive e-assist kit on my road bike. This has smoothed out the hills, and opened out my rides again. 2024 is my 93rd year, but I hope to keep going a bit longer yet, with reasonable mileages courtesy of the kit.
@@vincekerrigan8300This is wonderful! 93 and look at you go! Glad you are out cycling and enjoying your rides. You are an inspiration to us all!😍
I started running at 68. I'm 72 now. Just finished my first 1/2 marathon and am training for a full. Feeling younger than I felt a decade ago too.
It's a great feeling Elizabeth - long may it last
I admire your dedication to keeping fit, as St Cuthbert said, physical exertion cleanses the soul. I am 65 in January also, been a life long amateur TT racing cyclist to a high level, winning inter club open events along the way and cycled hundreds of thousands of miles. Commuted 34 miles per day 5 days a week in all weather for 25 years. I have also won inter school football competitions, was senior school football captain, talent scouted for swimming, run half marathons and did triathlons briefly. The last two, I was always injured with running. Whilst cycling i have never been injured by cycling itself ( falling off is a different matter ) or swimming. My main sport has always been cycling, at it's peak about 300 miles a week. I am still cycling competatively at nearly 65, training right through the winter on zwift. My knees, although i have covered so much distance on the bike are perfect and I have an aerobic threshold pulse rate of 171, which i maintain for an hour each session, every other day now. My boss was just as dedicated to running and his knees are shot and nearly immobile now. Running, although good for your heart and lungs destroys your knees long term. Something you will badly need in your later years for mobility. I am also part of the UK bio bank study, take no prescription medicine, had positive ultra sound and mri scans as well as heart scans etc. The most positive measure for me is the carotid artery ultra sound check i had. It showed a completely empty pipe devoid of any arthoschlerosis at all. Physical activity, hardly ever drinking alcohol, not smoking and staying life long slim has paid off big time for me and it can for you. Remember the more oxygen you consume, the less time you will live because of free radicals being released and destroying your dna over time. Being fitter uses net less oxygen per day, by reducing your resting pulse rate , by improving your body's aerobic efficiency, as well as having as small a physique as possible to fuel with oxygen also. Keep fit, keep healthy it is the most effective medicine a person can take. But as you age, your ability to repair slows down. Cycling has minimal wear and damage because it is none impact and therefore you can do more of it. Running however has high wear, particularly the impact to your knees and hips and needs much more time to repair. The effect of this with continual regular running, is degradation over time, with repeated trauma and not enough repair to return the knee back to their original state, leading to serious knee mobility issues later in life. I have seen it.
This is absolutely fascinating, thank you Steve. I didn;'t know anything about the carotid artery ultrasound but it makes good sense to check. And as for the knees - yes, I have to moderate the wear they undergo.
I just stared Gravel and MTB riding last year. It was amazing when I achieved my first cycling goal that was only 6 miles. Now I’m doing much more with ease and the MTB riding this year has been phenomenal! Good luck to everyone else out there that’s also starting late, but it’s been nothing less than a wonderful life transition experience, it really leads to another exciting stage in life. Remember don’t give up, the rewards will absolutely exceed your dreams.
“Happy Trails”
I turned 60 in March of this year. I’m going to follow this series with interest. Over the years I’ve kept myself fit. Currently I bike, hike, run I’m expecting to live another 30+ years. I’ve had one or two injuries over the years, the most recent being two years ago when I ruptured my quadriceps tendon. I made a good recovery and was hiking eight weeks later. If I can keep doing my activities into my 80s I’ll be grateful and satisfied.
I have just turned 64. Sport has accompanied me throughout my life. More than 20 years of handball, then 10 years of triathlon and long-distance running in the 80s/90s. I had to cut back for professional reasons, but have always been able to maintain my fitness to some extent by running and cycling. As a former professional soldier, I am now retired and have all the time in the world to fully enjoy my sport again. Unfortunately, I can no longer run due to my hip problems, but cycling - whether on a road bike or gravel bike - is my absolute passion. Unfortunately, I've neglected strength training somewhat, but I'm going to start now because it's so important to maintain your strength as you get older. I'm looking forward to your other videos on this topic.
Sounds good Peter. And yes to strength training. 3 vids on my routines coming plus I’m visiting a trainer to check my form and content.
Great idea for a series. I'm 73 and ride every day, and lift weights three times a week. Like so many of the people here I have no plans to stop or slow down. I've been doing this since I was a kid - first tennis through college and then as a teaching pro. Then running, soccer, kayaking, road cycling, and so on. An interesting fellow you might want to do a piece about is Robert Marchand, a French cyclist who at 104 was able to able to average 15 mph for one hour (among other cycling records he set). He continued cycling through age 107 but stopped competing for records on doctors' advice (orders) when he was 106. He died at age 109 in 2021. Pretty inspiring I'd say.
Some folk are just amazing outliers.
That is what I tell all my friends that’s my goal when they ask me why I ride my bike so much, everyday.I Iam 75 and ride everyday too. I make it a point to ride my age +1 in miles every birthday. Set your goals high!!
I am 74. I ride at25 mph with 1000 feet of climbing and 25 miles every day. I also row hike kayak and take frequent walks. I do strength training training. I think that’s an important aspect of this and shouldn’t be neglected my maximum heart rate is 178 and my pulse is 51 of course I was a professional cyclist and graduate school, but what’s really kept me going is that I’ve been an active athlete my entire life it’s important to not overdo it, however, if you exercise and the very strongest, most intense way, you can actually damage your heart at that age so be careful. Some high intensity work is good, but not too much changes in the heart take place with some of the cell structure of the heart which don’t happen at a younger age. This is definitely something to look up on UA-cam. There’s some excellent research showing that’s true. otherwise you’re doing great.
If you’d like chapter and verse on this from a cardiologist, himself an older athlete, you might want to watch the latest in this series.
How hard to train? A Cardiologist on heart health for older athletes
ua-cam.com/video/olg90Dq9ay8/v-deo.html
When I was younger a woman said to me "if I walk everyday, I'll walk everyday". That has always resonated with me
Good one!
The old adage "If you dont use it you lose it" is a solid truth. I'm 66 years old and fortunately I love the outdoors and am in good health to enjoy it. I cycled 2600 kms of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route last year. I am going back this year to finish the last 1600 km. We are a lot more capable then we realize. Thank you for all your videos, I appreciate and enjoy your work
I really fancy that ride…
It was everything had hoped for and more. Challenging for sure but very rewarding
For me, I do a lot of meditation, some yoga, walking and being very careful with my diet. At 63 I find this a good balance for me. I’m glad you’re not trying to advocate a one size fits all approach.
Thank you for using the proper adverb 'healthily'. Probably the biggest impediment to exercise as we age, even though we maintain a proper weight, is our joints. Sadly after middle age our joints just aren't the same. Even worse if one develops osteoarthritis or RA. Now 73 I got hit with RA in my legs at age 45 but with proper medication I kept exercising mostly my mountain bike, resistance exercises every 3rd day, and swimming in summertime. Yes, you do have to put up with some minor aches and pains but the reward is strong muscles and cardio improvement. The key is to never stop exercising. Btw booze, drugs, smoking, and over-eating will ensure you will never have retirement years.
73 and about to saddle up for a 20 mile ride. Been a cyclist for 44 years, vegetarian for 52 years and a non drinker for 25 years. Not as cross fit as you are, Mr. AAA. But, as others commenting here, staying reasonably fit enables one to enjoy life longer and more fully. Cheers.
Good video on a good subject.
I am 64 and I, like everyone else here, intend on going out with a bang.
I have have two life changing events that showed me that I am not invincible. I now am feeling the "10 summers" deadline.
One thing that I have to share is my bodies ability to heal itself quickly. I don't know if I heal well because of my diet or my lifestyle. I am a farmer who exercises and eats a high meat diet.
As people post information on the comments section we can all learn.
I look forward to the science.
Interesting - most people I know would say rate of healing has dropped with age. I only eat meat when I know its provenance, usually friends have raised it and had it slaughtered on Mull. Sounds like you have come from good breeding stock! 😁
I just stumbled onto program and my eyes went wide, terrific and way overdue! Haven't seen the rest but most certainly look forward to them. I'm 78+ male been a competitive swimmer all my life, now open water swim on Lake Michigan (when it doesn't try to eat me) and cycle almost daily. Oh and climb up and down on my 135yo Swedish farmhouse...it's my vertical health club. Ooorah to you!!
Sounds great Vic!
@@alwaysanotheradventure holy cow are you fast...I just posted it! lol. Thx I'm a writer will most definitely look to your vids. On with the show!
I am 75 years old and still ride mountain bike or gravel bike 4-5 days a week 8 months and downhill ski 4-5 days a week for 4 months. Basically it been part of my life style. It’s not just something that I do it’s who I am. I been retired for a while but still work part time in a ski shop on weekends during the season. During the summer my wife and I sea kayak 1-2 days a week. Yoga on a regular basis has helped maintain the necessary flexibility, balance and breathing.
Sounds like you have things well sorted there Thomas!
Hi from Thailand.
Retired expat, 77. I walk about 90 minutes a day. Long motorcycle rides 3-4 times acweek. Before did gym and some boxing.
Unfottunately moved and no gym here. Have home weights, hopefully this will motivste me to start again.
Thanks for the video.
That doctor is taking BS. I rode up snowdon some years ago (the road up to it) and there was a really old guy on a road bike following us up. He wasn’t far behind. When we reached the top he creaked off his bike and we got chatting. Turns out he was 85 years old and he told us he rides it daily and claimed it’s what kept him alive. Fair play. I have taken his advice to heart and aim to be like him. You start to die when you stop moving that’s the fact of the matter.
I’m a little late but jumping on. I turn 68 tomorrow. When I was 18 I went to an Outward Bound camp. I asked the kayaking instructor how to stay upright in tough water. He said ‘Just keep paddling, harder than you think you need to’. That has stuck with me for 50 f%#*{}ing years.
😂
71st bday in August..3 resolutions crochet a top, completed.. knitting a cardigan, in progress. Joined karate and got yellow belt.
Hi, you are absolutely right, I'm 81 and have been riding for for 40 years three times a week. Just keep going. My pals are a little younger but that helps me going. Thanks for your intrest.
55yo here, want to keep riding into my 80s. Looking forward to the series. A quote I love: "Motivation is fickle. Thats where discipline and consistency take over."
I became too old for cycling in my 20's. Carpel tunnel syndrome made my hands go numb just at the thought of gripping handle bard... just like now... and it affects my guitar playing. My podiarist forbids me from running due to my flat feet and posterial tibial tendonitis. None the less not cycling all these years my legs are still super strong.... maybe it's all the skiing I do as an instructor but my lower body is exceptional I praise all the cycling I did in my late teens and early twenties for giving me leg strength and endurance into old age. At 68 I still have all the aches, pains I had in my 40's but now I know what to do and they never bother me as I recognize the need for rest and water cures almost every age related ache and pain. Exercise and fitness are life long passions that start early in life and pays the dividends in to old age.
Ni😊ce start Simon. I had my 80th birthday last week and my wife and i spent the day cycling our bikes in Albir in the Costa Blanca. I did 4000km last year and am over 3000km so far this year. Am planning my next ten years on my three electric bikes, riding in the sunshine of later life. Keep it up.
Thanks! I don’t know Albir - my folks retired north of Denia, but the cycling is excellent. Quite envious 😁
I’m 67 and started my fitness lifestyle in my early 20s. Cycling, weight training and other endurance activities had always been part of who I am. My wife is always adopted this lifestyle although a little later in life as we married when she was 28
Sounds great! I met mine climbing in Alaska and thought - ‘a woman who is wired like me - brilliant!’
I'm 77 and have been riding seriously since I was 40, racking up well over 120K miles along the way. In the last couple years I was having trouble keeping off some weight. This past September my wife was diagnosed with a liver condition that can only be halted and slightly improved by a strict diet. I decided that I would also do the same as I will not eat something she cannot. We had to eliminate two things, sugar and flour. Flour causes inflammation in the liver and sugar fills the liver with fatty deposits leading to hardening. Since the 13th of Sept we have both lost 20 lbs and the results for me personally has been to increase energy and performance on the bike. I look forward to your videos.
Gosh, fascinating. I knew sugar and refined flour was bad. Is the same true of unrefined organic flour in sourdough? Well done one the weight drop and feeling better.
I am doing what you preach. I am an avid hiker and backpacker. I have been losing weight through proper diet, and increasing my effort every year so I can complete a through hike of the Colorado Trail in a couple of years. However, I wouldn't call it "motivation", but "dedication". Motivation is fleeting. You have to be dedicated to reach the goals you set.
I walked the 500-mile Camino de Santiago at 65-years of age. Next month, I am walking the Camino Portuguese-I'll be 72 this time. Getting older offers more challenges for staying fit, but the satisfaction on accomplishments is also also higher.
Sounds great Stephen! I rode the Camino in 1991 and didn't meet one other pilgrim, so I think it has changed. Great to have targets and goals to motivate
I’m with you. I’m 77 years old, a USMC Vietnam veteran and a Firefighter veteran. I’ve been a cyclist since 1970, and avid hiker as well. I have found that resistance training is very important along with stretching and cardio. I started taking Creatine (5 grams a day) 4 months ago and the improvement in strength, endurance and muscle has been amazing. No side effects, but water weight gain will occur, however the body’s metabolism changes and fat loss is noticeable. Just keep moving…walk, hike, cycle, or swim. Don’t stop moving!
Sounds interesting, thank you!
I’m 70. I’ve already cycled 6200 miles for 2023. My New Year’s resolution is to ride 7000 for 2024. There is no doubt that I’ll do it.
That’s what it takes. Good nutrition and the will and commitment to accomplish the unattainable. 😊❤
I'm in, and subbed!! Turned 60 4 months ago, and am still getting after it, just like I did in my teens. I'm a firm believer in: What you do in the previous decade, paves the way for the next. Looking forward to watching your vids (your videography and editing it outstanding)! I also post vids, and am currently detailing the process and outcome of a pair of surgeries that I had earlier this year to straighten my bowed legs, save what remains of my damaged knees, and keep on being athletic. Cheers!
Just love this. Cycling is my passion (used to be tennis) this year I’ve done 3 200k audax, my first gravel event, 3 yrs ago did LeJog, I’m 71 and next yr hope to do some longer distance events. I refuse to accept age as a limiting factor. I really believe keeping moving is key (I also walk my dog 3 times every day). Particularly looking forwards to your take on nutrition and strength training 👍
Nice work Cath!
Absolutely fantastic, as a seasoned cyclist I’m so pleased I’ve stumbled across your UA-cam channel, so informative and you seem like such a great chap, thanks for doing this and sharing your knowledge, nice taking the journey with 😊
Hi Mark - pleased you found the channel!
If I may make a suggestion: in the US, the physiologists at the US Olympic training center(s) have been open to discussions about athletics and aging. In fact, people like us are their prime source of empirical data on the topic. I know a number of national level cyclists that are slightly older than I am and you can see them aging, of course, but you usually don't see them limping around. or sitting. Unless they have had the dreaded "Fall".
All of that, being active and getting sufficient sleep to allow healing factors, may be the simplest way to "extend" our duration of activeness. And the activity is likely to slow the aging process, but ultimately, it is just an extension. A welcomed extension, don't get me wrong.
Above all, be safe. You don't bounce as well as you used to when you were in your 20's. You have to blend the adventure with a larger safety factor.
Hey Keith - the Healthy Habits video starts with sleeping - absolutely crucial in my view.
You’re right about sitting - I’ve heard it described as ‘the new smoking’.
I’m hoping I can leverage the interesting in these initial videos to persuade some genuine experts, like those you mention, to share some of that expertise.
All of which lies ahead…
The rest of the published videos are here
tinyurl.com/OlderAthleteVideos
just do it..enjoy the ride. its your responsibility. your body your mind. be happy
I'm 87 and still racing in Thames racing skiffs, Used to be an ultra-distance runner until knocked off bike in 1992. A old running colleague of mine - also top cyclist -was trying to set the cycling 10k road record for the over 90s a year or so ago. Look for sports in later life which have little load on the joints and you can carry on till kingdom comes, which it does to all of us. Oh diet, high natural fats (butter, ghee, lard, beef dripping, cream, raw or unhomogenised milk, olive and coconut oils - no other veg oils: grass-fed ruminants - what they eat goes into you) and low carbohydrate, sugar.
Great idea Simon, I would be interested in your methods to keep active...I’m 64 and have always being active cycling, running, fell walking etc I have definitely changed the ways I cycle, run etc over the years. The general trend had been to forget about the times, data of each activity and instead enjoy the aesthetic experience of being outdoors. This has reduced the burn out and fatigue and kept me active. It took me a long time to reach this obvious piece of wisdom. I still tend to ride too hard on my bike sometimes which inevitably leads to me getting sick of cycling but I return to it after a short hiatus.
I am fortunate to live in rural Northumberland so I am spoilt for choice for routes and rides. Personally I cannot stand the monotony of indoor gym exercises and will only go on the turbo in the foulest of weather. I am insufferable when injured and feel an awful creeping sense of unease if confined to barracks. I tend to eat real food and avoid lots of sugar. For me being outdoors doing something keeps me grounded and sane but I am never going to be as fast and strong as I was as a younger man but that’s absolutely fine.looking forward to your series.
Sounds like you're on the right path. And Northumberland too - that's home!
I’m 61 too and used to run n bike but feel less motivated to. I hope you can inspire me. Thx! 😎🤞🏼🇨🇦
At 77 I still ride as much as I can or feel like. And I ride alone as that way I will not slow other riders down. And the younger ones are faster as well. It is still ok as riding makes one feel better after than before and it is always worth it.
I paddled out at Jensen Beach, not big 6 feet and I was sitting near a guy, maybe 30 years away. He eventually looked at me and said "I'm impressed." He elaborated, "His 38 years old friend was back standing on the beach looking out at us having not been able to paddle through the middle break sandbar."
I said, "38 was 25 years ago." We laughed.
But I don't eat meat. My basic foods are whole grain rice, whole milk plain yogurt bananas, and some green vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers and green cabbage (which I add to hot water with Ramen).
I do a basic core each morning or whenever. I ride the 6 miles out and 6 miles back from the condo to Stuart Beach. Once or twice a week maybe some very light dumb bells range of motion movements and paddling in the surf for upper body. My surfing is mostly paddling. I still ride a 6'2" on cleaners stuff or maybe I take a egg or a bigger mush board out on crappy days. I will even paddle around on my 8'5" on flat weekends to talk to the girls.
It's my basic belief in endurance mostly. Riding for lower body. Paddling for upper body.
Then there is Summers in Bulgaria hiking. Trails up and down, nice and slow, and swimming or biking. But with everything, slow is fast and just keep the cadence up. I recently did a BP check: 116/71 and 65 bpm resting pulse. And I'm not that thin at all. But it's the feeling of keeping in motion. I don't go for strength. It's endurance.
62 years old and my fitness has suffered a little since lockdown. I Intend doing the Frontier 300 next year and his series could not have come at a better time. Thank you Simon. Keep on keeping on 😀
That's it Rick - set a goal. Superb one too.
73 here and still trail running and cycling. Started in 1958 and never quit. And still motorcycling.
Sounds great Brad
I'm 68 haven't run for over 20 years.. haha.. but this year I spent two months riding my old motorbike 6000miles to Istanbul. Via Germany, Poland , Romania.. back up the Adriatic.. camping out all the way. People who don't do it, think it's a holiday, and don't realise how utterly exausting it is, but so rewarding... The other real issue, (for me) are the little buggers, ... Mosquitoes. The signes warning not to feed bears was a concern, but as you say. "Don't let the old Man in". And don't listen to that little voice, saying, "don't go. It may be dangerous". The great outdoors, and adventure, is the essence of life, not the comfy warm bed, upstairs... Best wishes
Thanks Tony. We have a couple of bikers in the village my age who go all over the place (not as big as your amazing trip!) and I tease them about just sitting back and letting the motor do the work. But I realise that your sort of biking really is exhausting in a different way. Long may you ride!
As a lifelong outdoor adventurist and a landscape contractor now 66, I just want to continue what has been what I do. I don’t pay attention to those I know who have given up on their own fitness, I do what I can and truly am grateful for everyday that my body can give me another bike ride, another hike, another day of skiing, and another day of work. Too old…..for what?
I’ll be 70 in April god willing. Always been a keen cyclist Walker and fairly decent badminton player. I’m still fit but haven’t done a lot of those three since the first covid lockdown. I started riding a modest motorbike again, back in 2019 with my sons group and since then my social life has exploded with regular weekly meetings, great food and literally hundreds of potential new like minded friends, a lot are the same age as me. ( and it’s a lot easier riding up steep hills this way!)😁
I’m convinced that exercise and nutrition are key to a long, healthy and happy life, although there’s always the chance of illness, at least you are stacking the odds in your favour. I’m 55 and run or cycle pretty much every day. It’s not so easy in the winter to stay motivated, but I feel so much better after my daily exercise “fix”, that I keep going even when it’s cold / wet. I do avoid cycling when roads are icy…don’t want to invite accidents!
That’s it - stack the odds in your favour. Great way to put it.