Safe Exercise For Better Health Is The Way To Prepare For An Active Old Age

Safe Exercise For Better Health Is The Way To Prepare For An Active Old Age

This post presents an overview of the FitOldDog Training Philosophy or Training Wheel, which guides you through the process of developing improved mind and body awareness before you embark on an exercise program. The goal is to learn to train safely, and thus reduce risk of exercise-induced injuries. One of my favorite books is 'Lord of the Rings,' By Tolkien. This mighty tome treats the females in a strange way, ... Read more

Hey! Fit Old Dogs! Do You Want To Do An Ironman?

Hi folks, I just received my photos for the Lake Placid Ironman 2011 from Action Sports International, and they did a great job (Thanks!). It was my slowest time ever at Lake Placid, but it was the fastest anyone has ever finished that race with an abdominal aortic aneurysm-stent graft in their belly. If you want to do one, this is how it goes. It started with the usual gentle swim when the gun went off at 7:00 am ... Read more

Thoughts On Training At 50+: ‘Not Going Slower’ Versus ‘Going Faster’

Hi folks, The power is back on, hurricane Irene is leaving and in spite of blustery winds Rory and I went for an easy spin on our bikes. During the ride we were comparing our ride times (speed) over the years for certain routes and we agreed that we were definitely slowing down. It then occurred to me that a training program designed to make you faster might not be optimal for older endurance athletes. Your ... Read more

Do You Need A Coach, And If So How Do You Find A Good One?

  Hi folks, I am a highly motivated person, but on a dark winters morning, when it is raining, I'm tired and stiff and in my warm bed, do I really want to go on that early morning ride, jump in the pool, or wade through cold water on muddy trails? Or would I like to stay in the warm and have a nice hot cup of tea? Easy to answer, which is why I need a coach, whether I need to exercise for better health ... Read more

Healthy Aging Recovery: Do Older People Need More Recovery Time

Healthy Aging Recovery: Do Older People Need More Recovery Time

Older People Do Need More Recovery Time! Yes! We Do! So What! Sometimes I Need Two (2) Recovery Days, So I Take Them! Build this body-awareness training into your exercise plan! To go as fast or far as you can. Exercise safely! Body awareness becomes increasingly important for healthy aging recovery. I should know, still doing Ironman races in my 70s Crazy Ol' Coot? No! Happy Older Athlete! If you ... Read more

Regular Health Screening Should Be Part Of Your Exercise Program And It Can Save Your Life

  Hi folks, The number of health screens of which you can avail yourself in order to extend your life span is increasing steadily. You should explore your family history for your own specific risks, and not wait for the medical community to prompt you to do so. In my case my genetic risks included severe hyperlipidemia and aortic aneurysms. About 30 years ago we detected extremely high blood lipids in ... Read more

To Perform Well Hang Out With People Who Perform Well

  Hi folks, Birds of a feather tend to flock together, so choose 'your flock' wisely. This is why I like to attend triathlon training camps, as they provide me with the opportunity to mingle with talented athletes and learn from them. I also meet some older people, like myself, who are endeavoring to become better athletes in spite of the inevitable aging process. The energy of the group just pulls you ... Read more

Two Triathletes Die In Swim: The Issue Is Training, Not The Rules Of The Game

Hi folks, I was very sad to hear of two unnecessary deaths in the New York City Triathlon. I say unnecessary because of my experience in triathlons as an ex-water polo player. I have completed the Lake Placid Ironman five times, which has an extremely crowded swim start. This year I completed the race with an abdominal aortic stent graft, and at no time did I feel threatened in the water. The start of these ... 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.