Run, But Not Fast or Far

Sunday with Herb

I recently posted my running plans for this new year which include a marathon and 100K ultramarathon. Amongst the standard “atta boy” comments I received, Rick Martin added this sage advice…

“I think now that you've survived two separate events, you're pressing your luck with continuing to run long distances like marathons. You can "gain the benefits" from 30 min runs, every other day, 3-4 mile runs with proper nutrition and cross training with strength and other fitness activities like yoga for strength, balance, etc. Leave the long distance runs for those don't have the risk factors.”

I totally agree with Rick. Endurance racing is not healthy. It places significant stress on not only our cardiovascular system, but also our metabolism and neuromuscular system.

There is a great TED talk on YouTube by Dr. James O’keefe that explains this.

I do have a plan

I do plan on ramping down my endurance activities over the next 2 years. I have already stopped doing 100 mile races, and my Waldo 100K this summer will be my last 100K. I’m doing a Boston Qualifying marathon this spring to so I can run my last marathon at Boston next year.

I love the mountains and I will continue to spend quality time there by hiking, fast packing and short trail races.

I’m doing this not only for my cardiac health, but to prepare for what Dr. Peter Attia calls “The marginal decade”. For most of us, this is our 80’s, 90’s and beyond.

I want to still be able to run a bit, hike up steep mountains, surf and ski into my 90’s.

As you have seen from Dr. O’Keefe’s TED talk, you don’t have to do extreme activities to remain healthy as you age.

After my last marathon, I will continue to run 3 - 5 miles at a comfortable pace 3 or 4 times a week with my long runs no longer than 2 hours. I will also do at least 2 sessions a week of lifting heavy weights and keep up with my cross training, cycling and pickleball.

Endurance sports are great, I’ve had a great run over the years, but I don’t need to keep proving to myself that I’m awesome by doing stupid stuff. I’m happy to slow down and smell the roses for years to come!