Older Runner Is Running Out of Steam

Question: I’m 66 and training for my first marathon with a running club. My problem is that when I work out hard during the week, I’m not adequately recovered for our Saturday or Sunday group runs--unless it replaces one of my other weekly workouts. Do you think I’m better off getting several good workouts during the week or spacing them out over time and adding a weekend run? I’m the only old guy training with this running club.

ALFRED COX

Answer: This is a dilemma all of us face as we get older--and we all need to evaluate which workouts are most important and then focus on enjoying them. Other than doing all we can to speed recovery (diet, rest, stretching, massage, etc.), we have no other options.

For your marathon training, the most important thing to remember is that your workouts should become increasingly race-like. So ask yourself: What will best prepare me for the stresses on race day?

Many times, the most beneficial are combined workouts (power plus anaerobic endurance plus muscular endurance all in one session). Two of these weekly will do wonders for your fitness. It’s far better to do two high-quality sessions in a week rather than three mediocre ones, even if you have to sit it out all weekend.

Also, you may want to consider joining a runners club with a few older runners; their experience and advice might prove helpful.

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Stephanie Oakes is the fitness correspondent for Discovery Health Channel and a health/fitness consultant. Send questions by e-mail to stephoakes@aol. com.