My marathon of life is simple. I’m 75, and I want to live a marathon of years (26.2) to make it to 100 and beyond. I was running this morning in the Corrales, New Mexico bosque along an acequia path when I came upon two women with their three dogs. I stopped and mentioned that my daughter and I have three dogs like theirs – two large and one small. As I started to run again, one of the women said, “Are you training for a marathon?” I answered, “Yes, for a marathon of life,” and explained what it was.
For most runners, a marathon is 26.2 miles. For me, my next marathon has become 26.2 years.
I’ve reached the point in my running career where personal records at traditional race distances are probably behind me. I could still run an ultramarathon someday and earn a new personal record simply because I’ve never raced that distance before, but eventually those opportunities become fewer.
That made me realize something. There is still one personal record I can continue chasing every single day. Living well.
If I can stay healthy, strong, and active for another 26.2 years, that would be the greatest personal record of my life.
I already know how to train. I’ve been running for nearly six decades and coaching people for more than 40 years. I understand the importance of consistency, strength training, and endurance.
What I’m realizing is that the next phase of my journey depends just as much on something else – nutrition and recovery.
The workouts are only part of the equation. The food I eat, the quality of my sleep, how well I recover, and the daily habits that support healthy aging will determine how well I continue this marathon of life.
That’s why next week’s Featured Category on HowToBeFit.com will be Nutrition & Recovery.
I’d like you to join me as we explore practical ways to fuel our workouts, recover more effectively, and build the health that allows us to enjoy the years ahead.
After all, the finish line I’m chasing isn’t 26.2 miles.
It’s another 26.2 years.
Rich Dafter is the founder of HowToBeFit.com, a lifelong runner, former ACE Certified Personal Trainer, BODi Coach since 2007, and Polar Athlete and Ambassador for 39 years. At 75, he continues to run, hike, strength train, and share practical strategies for healthy aging, fitness, and longevity. Learn more about Rich Dafter on the About page.
