I've been running most of my life, but only regularly for the last seven years. I'm 42 and in good shape. I used go on several 10+ mile runs per week, mostly on asphalt, usually totaling 35 or more miles per week. I advise anyone reading this to not do long runs that often or that many miles per week, especially if you're over thirty. The level of fatigue, and the general wear and tear on your joints, is ridiculous and counterproductive. A more reasonable approach is to run more often for shorter distances at a faster pace. Include a few hills on your route. I enjoy vigorous runs of 3 to 5 miles on dirt trails and have cut back my total mileage to 15 to 25 miles per week. I also lift some weights and do push ups. I do a few sets of squats (great for testosterone), military presses, curls, push ups and rows. Nothing crazy, but enough to keep my level of lean muscle mass up. Guys who just run will loose a lot of muscle mass over the years, and guys who only lift (unless they're juicing), tend to get fat and lack stamina. Balance is the key. A little cardio and a little resistance training is the way to go. And if you're over 40 like me, don't kid yourself into thinking you're still 25. Give yourself a little extra rest when you need it, but don't be a pussy either. Get out and move!
Last edited by Dingdong; 08-30-2009 at 06:35 PM.
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