We Runners in Our 80s

We’re at this level because we suit up, get out there, begin moving rapidly, and transition into a relaxed jog or run. The first few minutes, our legs are fresh and springy. Then our bodies begin to protest initial minor aches. But we coax or coerce our legs, hearts, and lungs to continue through initial stress, toward our goal. We’ve learned that our minds are more than capable of pushing us beyond pain and reluctance. With each passing minute, we settle into our groove. We can intentionally program discomfort to the back of our minds.

We increase our pace and stride, feeling nuances of changing dynamics in our feet, calves, thighs, hips, shoulders, and arms. We begin to move in relaxed fluidity. Smooth harmony propels us forward. With calm and grace, we glide In rhythmic footfalls and breathing, endorphins suffusing body and mind. Oxygen recharges our lungs, brain and muscle with a sharpening of senses, cognition, motivation, and confidence.

We slow to an easy, purposeful walk, with sweat as our hard-earned badge of robust, exuberant, dedicated effort. We’ve just been assured of our physical and mental capabilities at advanced age. We give ourselves an internal pat on the back. Our watches tell us we’re faster or slower than yesterday. It’s all good.

Each adventure on road, sidewalk or trail is an escape to a primal world. We think, “Just me, the path ahead, and the sky.” Each journey provides a sense of accomplishment, and assurance of competence. To cease this ritual of solitude would be self-betrayal. A day without running is resignation, nihilism, defeat. We need our inner rewards while in motion: tranquility, creative ideas, holistic health, a sense of freedom, and daydreaming.

Each outing is an experiment, a benchmark, and test. We are curious; we are inquisitive. How many more years of running are in us? A few determined souls have eased their running beyond age 100. They've made their inner experience their highest priority, and they persevere. Most of us have survived major medical challenges. Running has been essential to our physical and emotional healing. Our current health is the "return" on many years of investment, and better than money in the bank.

We choose health and fitness. We choose mastery. We feel joy in our freedom and the privileges of mobility, strength, and energy. Our runs affirm our determination to live life to the fullest.

Will Walsh