Engage Oscillatory Systems For Optimal Ironman Training As You Age, With Thoughts On Water Running And Plantar Fasciitis

Engage Oscillatory Systems For Optimal Ironman Training As You Age, With Thoughts On Water Running And Plantar Fasciitis

Whilst water running, and testing the ASTRO (see below) later that day, I was reminded of the comments of a friend of mine, Rory, on his approach to water-running. I also reflected on my bygone interest in the mathematics of oscillatory systems in Biology, and how I like to use my body's oscillators to reduce the effort of swimming, biking and running. I suspect that the power of oscillators is one reason why high ... Read more

Ironman Dream Was Weird But Informative

Ironman Dream Was Weird But Informative

Do you feel your age some days? Well stop that, BAD DOG! I'm finally getting past my subluxated hip, putting all those soft tissues back into line, especially my left hip flexor (iliacus), and starting to sign up for races, which may account for my weird Ironman dream last night. "I'm in an Ironman race, no idea where, and I'm running up a hill (about a 7% grade, which there is no way I could do), and I ... Read more

The Pleasure Of The Fall, Or Should I Say These Autumn Days, In Memory Of Henry?

The Pleasure Of The Fall, Or Should I Say These Autumn Days, In Memory Of Henry?

A friend of mine, Henry Heck, died recently, and he was not the first to leave us. Each time it happens, I'm left thinking that every day is more precious than the last. People speak of the autumn of life, and I guess it's the natural cycle of things, but I'm in no hurry to go. I'm working to enjoy these lovely fall days and nights in North Carolina. The dogs are certainly happier, and more active, as the ... Read more

Be A Good Sport About Your Ironman DNF, Fair Or Not, It Creates Space For Reflection

Be A Good Sport About Your Ironman DNF, Fair Or Not, It Creates Space For Reflection

My friends were mad about my recent DNF (Did Not Finish) in the 2014, Maryland Ironman, but, in order to be a good sport, I took it in my stride as a blessing in disguise. Here's my story: The 2014 Maryland Ironman race started at 6:50 am., on a lovely morning in Cambridge, Maryland, in the Choptank river. My race went fine until late that evening, considering the fact that my training had been degraded by a ... Read more

How to fix plantar fasciitis in five steps

How to fix plantar fasciitis in five steps

Hi folks, welcome! One week ago, I told my movement and dance teacher (not that I like to dance, I just want to move freely into late old age - I'm a sprightly 71, right now), Rebecca, that I had managed to induce a  case of plantar fasciitis heel pain in my left foot, by changing my running shoes, only one month before my next Ironman race, and she said, "Great, we can demonstrate that our method really ... Read more

Hey! Boomers, For Active Aging Fitness Get Your Senior Pass For The National Parks

Hey! Boomers, For Active Aging Fitness Get Your Senior Pass For The National Parks

Hi folks, welcome, Aging can be a bummer, but there are some advantages, such as the National Parks Senior Pass. It costs $10, but it lasts for life (so stay in shape for full value). I got mine a few years ago, and the parks staff are always welcoming and friendly, explaining all the great benefits of your card. Including the fact that everyone in your vehicle can come in for free, too. You also get to park ... Read more

Repiphanies, Arch Supports, And FitOldDog’s Journey To Barefoot Running And Back Again

Repiphanies, Arch Supports, And FitOldDog's Journey To Barefoot Running And Back Again

Hi folks, welcome! Just because you can't handle barefoot running, does not mean that you can't use it as a carefully titrated component of your arch (thus your running) training. I really don't like using arch supports for running, as I consider them to be a crutch, but it would appear, that for now at least, I'm forced to do so! Ever since my interest in barefoot running, and increasing the ... Read more

Aging, Health And The Value Of Regular Massage, Professional Or Self-Applied

Hi folks, welcome! As we get to enjoy the trials and tribulations of aging, we become stiffer. If you want to keep yourself moving as an older adult, or find tight muscles (myofascia) before they become sports injuries, have a massage. Massage is extremely beneficial, but complex. I have experienced two main forms of massage, 'fluff and buff,' where the goal is relaxation, and sports massage, which can be ... Read more

Disclaimer: As a veterinarian, I do not provide medical advice for human animals. If you undertake or modify an exercise program, consult your medical advisors before doing so. Undertaking activities pursued by the author does not mean that he endorses your undertaking such activities, which is clearly your decision and responsibility. Be careful and sensible, please.