Speedy Marathon

January 11, 2014

Margaret asked The Guru for the following Physiotherapy Advice:

Hi there, I am 64 years old and have been running for about 4 years on a regular basis. I ran a marathon in 2010 in 5hrs 2 mins and felt that it was possible to better that. Now however I seem to be getting slower all the time. Is this acceptable at my age ? should I assume that ? I have a ballot place for London 2013 and would like to at least equal my Florence time. Advice please.

Margaret
January 11, 2014

Well done Margaret – don’t stop!

It’s relatively tricky to answer this with laser guided precision. There are quite a few factors to take into account.

Unfortunately, the older you get the slower you’ll run – and you’ve got a point on a graph in 2010, to compare against.

BUT, don’t let this put you off – you’ve just got to train smart and possibly change the type of training you do, compared to 2010.

Don’t expect to smash your time, but there are a few things to tweak… interval, paced, speed and distance runs WITH a strength (gym) and stability (pilates) program. Follow good nutritional advice for the last (at least) 12-10 weeks and have the right kit on your feet and body.

I’m sure you’ll get below the 5 hours…

Good Luck

Guru Responded

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